UKGC: No Data Held on Casino Premises Licence Objections

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UKGC Confirms It Does Not Handle Premises Licensing

A Freedom of Information (FOI) request has revealed that the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) does not hold data on its own representations regarding casino premises licence applications. The response clarifies a crucial aspect of the UK's dual-licensing system: the Commission licenses operators, while local authorities license the physical premises.

Context: Understanding the Request

The request, dated 21 May 2024, sought to understand the UKGC's involvement in local licensing decisions. Specifically, it asked for the number of casino premises licence applications since 1 January 2014 where:

• The Commission made representations that were maintained until a hearing.
• The Commission made representations but adopted a neutral stance without a formal objection.

This information would shed light on how frequently the national regulator intervenes or provides input when a new casino seeks to open or an existing one wishes to vary its licence.

Details: Information Not Held

In its response, the UKGC stated that it holds no information falling within the scope of the request. The reason provided is fundamental to the structure of gambling regulation in Great Britain.

The Commission explained: "The Commission does not issue premises licences. As such, no information falling within the scope of your request is held by the Commission."

It further clarified that the responsibility for licensing gambling premises rests with local licensing authorities, which are typically the local councils for the area where the business is located. The UKGC advised that anyone seeking this information would need to contact individual licensing authorities directly.

Significance: What This Means for Consumers

This FOI response highlights the important distinction between an operating licence and a premises licence.

• Operating Licence: Issued by the UKGC, this allows a company to provide gambling services in the UK. The Commission assesses the operator's suitability, financial stability, and commitment to the licensing objectives, such as preventing crime and protecting vulnerable people.

• Premises Licence: Issued by a local authority, this permits gambling to take place at a specific physical location. The local authority considers local factors, such as the suitability of the location and potential impact on the community, and can receive representations from interested parties, including the UKGC and local residents.

For consumers, this clarifies the correct channels for inquiries or complaints. While the UKGC oversees the conduct of the gambling operator itself, concerns about a specific betting shop or casino's location, opening hours, or its impact on the local area should be directed to the relevant local council's licensing department. This FOI outcome serves as a key reminder that a comprehensive picture of land-based gambling regulation requires looking at the actions of hundreds of local authorities, not just the national regulator.