Entain chairman: UK needs “gold standard” regulation
Barry Gibson outlines the need for “firm but fair regulation” in the UK with a focus on player safety to become a global leader
Entain chairman Barry Gibson has stated the UK needs to aim for a “gold standard” in regulation to allow it to become a world leader in responsible gambling.
Speaking at the World Regulatory Briefing at ICE, Gibson stated that player safety needs to be at the core of future regulation, but there is a need to consider the wider industry’s interest.
He also said that a proper consultation process would help form regulations and will help in establishing the UK as a responsible gambling powerhouse.
Gibson said: “A good regulator is one that has player safety at its core, but that also takes into account the interests of the broader industry [including] operators, employees and sporting bodies working in proper consultation with the industry to create an environment that balances an open recreational market with the need to provide the highest levels of player protection.
“That is the gold standard we should be aspiring to. In my view, Nevada currently gets the closest.”
Gibson also spoke about how Entain has improved its approach to sustainable operations and responsible gambling, which included overhauling its board and executive committee and introducing a new vision and strategy that put growth and sustainability at its core.
The operator also launched its Advanced Responsibility and Care (ARC) programme and a new Entain Foundation initiative.
Gibson commented: “At Entain, we are strong advocates of firm but fair regulation that is rigorous, transparent and evidence-based.
“The UK already boasts a number of world-class betting and gaming businesses, developing and exporting homegrown expertise and tech prowess on the international stage.
“With gold standard regulation, Britain has the opportunity to be the global leader in responsible gambling,” Gibson added.