APPG calls for end to gambling sponsorship of daytime televison

In the letters, the APPG expressed “deep concern” about these sponsorships. It cited examples including Channel 5 soap Neighbours, which is sponsored by Entain brand Gala Bingo.

“Gambling companies are sponsoring programmes which seek to glamorise gambling with the aim of targeting women and young people and encouraging them to gamble,” the APPG said. 

“We are very concerned that television companies are promoting gambling – we have ourselves seen first-hand the harm and devastation that gambling can cause to young people’s lives, families and communities.”

The APPG added that this was especially important during lockdown measures imposed to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19), as children were more likely to be at home during the daytime and therefore to see these gambling advertisements.

Alongside its members, the group said that 52 “experts by experience” had also called for “urgent action”.

The APPG has previously called for an end to all gambling advertisements in a report published in June 2020. Other recommendations included a ban on online in-play betting and an end to VIP schemes.