"An estimated 1.4 million adults in Great Britain have a gambling problem, according to landmark figures released days after the chancellor hinted at increasing taxes on the 11.5bn industry. The Gambling Commission's annual survey found that 2.7% of adults scored 8 or above on the problem gambling severity index, a widely accepted measure analysing negative consequences of betting. In previous years, the watchdog had warned against extrapolating that percentage to the general population."
"That means the poll of more than 19,000 people can for the first time be used to estimate the total number dealing with a gambling problem nationally a figure of 1.4 million, or more than the population of Birmingham. The report also identifies higher rates of problem gambling in deprived areas and in formats such as slot machines and in-play betting on sports."
"Gordon Brown has called for an increase of up to 3bn in duties paid by gambling companies to pay for the lifting of the two-child benefit cap. The former prime minister's plan echoes calls from thinktanks including the Social Market Foundation and the Institute for Public Policy Research. Industry sources expect taxes to rise, albeit by a smaller amount than Brown wants."
The Gambling Commission's annual survey of more than 19,000 people found 2.7% of adults scored 8 or above on the problem gambling severity index, equating to about 1.4 million adults in Great Britain. The commission removed its previous caution against extrapolating the survey percentage after analysis by a statistics expert. The report identifies higher rates of problem gambling in deprived areas and in formats such as slot machines and in-play sports betting. Political figures have proposed higher gambling duties, including a Gordon Brown proposal of up to £3bn and hints from the chancellor about raising taxes. Industry sources expect taxes to rise modestly, while critics note punters lose about £11.5bn a year.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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