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Sturgis’ Review Sparks Controversy Over Gambling Survey Results

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welcome back to the channel. Today, we’re diving into the recent buzz around the Gambling Commission's (GC) Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB) and the mixed reactions it has received, even from its supposed endorsers.
So, the GC recently got some praise for its GSGB from Professor Patrick Sturgis of the London School of Economics. He called the study “exemplary in all respects.” But, here’s the catch: Sturgis also raised some serious concerns about the survey's reliability. He cautioned policymakers to be wary, highlighting that there’s a significant risk the survey might overstate the prevalence of gambling and gambling harm in the population.
This cautious endorsement speaks volumes about the trust issues surrounding the GC’s work. David Brown, a veteran in the UK gambling industry, pointed out last year how the GC has previously misrepresented statistics, especially regarding affordability checks.
Regulus Partners, a gambling advisory business, echoed these concerns, noting that the GSGB’s potential statistical inaccuracies have not been fully addressed. They pointed out past issues, like the GC withholding consumer views on affordability checks and downplaying the importance of statistical accuracy.
Melanie Ellis, a seasoned gambling regulatory lawyer, also weighed in, emphasizing the discrepancies between the GC’s data and NHS surveys on gambling. She believes these inconsistencies could impact public debate and policy, suggesting that the GC needs to ensure the accuracy of its data before it becomes official.
One of the biggest issues here is trust. The GC’s history of questionable statistical practices has eroded confidence. Ellis suggests that the GC needs to be as transparent as it expects gambling operators to be. Publishing all relevant data, including from the survey’s pilot stages, could help rebuild some of that lost trust.
Now, the GC’s decision to sideline the NHS Health Survey in favor of its own data is another hot topic. The NHS survey is seen as a gold standard, so ignoring it could distort public policy and harm the industry. Ellis argues that the NHS survey's higher response rates make it more reliable, and the GC’s survey might over-recruit highly engaged gamblers, skewing results.
In light of these concerns, Regulus pointed out that Sturgis might not have been fully aware of the GC’s statistical track record when he reviewed the GSGB, potentially missing a chance to hold the GC accountable.
Adding to the complexity, the UK government recently announced new maximum stake limits for online slots, set to take effect in September. These measures, limiting stakes for younger adults more strictly, are seen as potentially driving at-risk gamblers towards the black market, which has been growing rapidly.
This brings us to a critical point: many believe the GC might have an anti-gambling agenda, selectively publishing data to support its views. This perception doesn’t help an already shaky situation.
So, as we move further into 2024, it’s clear that these issues will continue to stir debate. The GC’s actions and transparency—or lack thereof—will be crucial in shaping the future of gambling regulation in the UK.
Thanks for tuning in. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more updates. Let’s keep this conversation going—what are your thoughts on the GC’s approach and the new regulations? Let me know in the comments below!

1 thought on “Sturgis’ Review Sparks Controversy Over Gambling Survey Results”

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