Introduction

The Gambling Act 2005 has been introduced to cater for the use of modern technology and the internet. It has replaced laws on gambling dating back more than 30 years. The Government has reviewed these laws and has drafted new legislation to modernise regulation and ensure that it can respond to future technological and market developments. In doing so it will continue to ensure that the main objectives for gambling are maintained – namely :

• Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, being associated with crime or disorder or being used to support crime.
• Ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way.
• Protecting children and other vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

The role of the Gambling Commission

Will issue Operating Licences to organisations and individuals who are providing facilities for gambling, eg casinos, betting offices, bingo halls, adult gaming centres, family entertainment centres (those requiring premises licences)

The Gambling Commission will also issue Personal Licences to certain categories of people working in the gambling industry eg persons in management positions and those who are in direct contact with customers when involved in gambling eg croupiers, bingo callers.

The role of the Local Authority

The holders of Operating Licences will have to apply to their Licensing Authority for Premises Licences for those premises mentioned above.

The Licensing Authority will also be responsible for the issue of Permits to family entertainment centres (those NOT requiring premises licences), Club Gaming Permits and Club Machine Permits, Alcohol Licensed Premises, Gaming Machine Permits and Prize Gaming Permits.

Potential Pitfalls

In a player's opinion, a licence guarantees reliability and honesty of the company. Players give more credence to gambling premises with a licence. Undertaking gambling-related business without a licence is illegal and may result in heavy fines and in extreme cases prison sentences.
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Consultancy

O'Brien Licensing provides a complete solution for all gambling establishments to provide a professional, coordinated and efficient service. If you would like to discuss any issues with us please contact us for a free consultation.
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Related Documents

The following table shows relevant documents and news items relating to Gambling Premises licensing.

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