R (Betting Shop Services) v Responsible Gambling Strategy Board
[2020] EWHC 2631 (Admin)
Ratio Decidendi
Gambling policy decisions by public bodies must be based on evidence and must not be arbitrary. However, the public interest in preventing gambling harm justifies significant regulatory intervention.
Ffeithiau
Betting shop operators challenged regulatory changes that restricted certain types of gaming machines in betting shops.
Crynodeb o'r dyfarniad
The High Court upheld the regulatory changes. The evidence showed a correlation between fixed odds betting terminals and problem gambling, and the restrictions were a proportionate response to protect vulnerable persons.
Dyfyniadau allweddol
"The licensing objectives include protecting vulnerable persons from harm. Restrictions on gambling products that disproportionately affect problem gamblers are justified."
— Lane J
Triniaeth ddilynol
Part of the jurisprudence supporting tighter gambling regulations.