London Mayor faces pressure to ban gambling ads on London Transport Network

Lea Hogg March 19, 2024

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London Mayor faces pressure to ban gambling ads on London Transport Network

In the fiscal year 2023, Transport for London (TfL) received ￡663,640 from gambling advertisements. This revenue stream is now under scrutiny as London Mayor Sadiq Khan, (pictured above), faces pressure to ban such ads, a commitment he made during his 2021 election campaign.

Mounting pressure for action?

The urgency to address the negative effects of gambling ads has been highlighted by a cross-party report from the London Assembly’s health committee. Despite the mayor’s pledge, no significant steps have been taken to implement the ban. The delay is attributed to the lack of a clear definition of ‘harmful gambling’ from the government, which is necessary to avoid potential legal challenges.

Dr. Tom Coffey, the mayor’s health advisor, has assured that once a clear definition is established, they will act quickly. Meanwhile, the Greater London Authority (GLA) is conducting research into the health impacts of gambling adverts, with a 2022 commission indicating that a ban could reduce harm and address gambling-related inequalities.

Bristol City Council’s 2021 ban on gambling ads in council-owned spaces serves as a precedent, aiming to protect public health. Dr. Onkar Sahota, chair of the health committee, expressed concern over London’s high rate of problem gambling and its impact on families and children.

In defense, the Betting and Gaming Council pointed out the industry’s economic contributions and adherence to strict advertising guidelines. They also mentioned the government’s stance that there is no proven causal link between ad exposure and problem gambling development.

The debate continues as stakeholders weigh the economic benefits against the potential harm caused by gambling advertisements on London’s transport network.