UKGC Corrects Media on Gambling Statistics

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Regulator Intervenes Over Data Misrepresentation

A Freedom of Information (FOI) disclosure has revealed that the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) contacted at least two media publications regarding the “misuse of official statistics” in early 2025. The correspondence, released in a partially redacted format, shows the regulator is actively monitoring how its data is presented in public discourse.

The information was released following a request for all correspondence sent or received by the Commission on this topic between 16 December 2024 and 14 February 2025.

Why This Matters to Consumers

Official statistics on gambling participation, problem gambling rates, and industry revenue are fundamental to public understanding and policy debates. When this data is misused or misrepresented, it can create a misleading picture of the risks associated with gambling and the effectiveness of current consumer protection measures.

For consumers, accurate reporting is crucial for making informed decisions. The UKGC’s intervention highlights the importance of data integrity and serves as a reminder for the public to be critical of statistics presented without context or a clear source.

Breakdown of the FOI Disclosure

The UKGC's response included links to two redacted PDF documents, which detail correspondence with specific media outlets:

• Coinslot: A document titled 250123 Coinslot Redacted indicates communication with the trade publication on or around 23 January 2025.
• The Telegraph: A second document, 250128 Telegraph Redacted, points to correspondence with the national newspaper on or around 28 January 2025.

While the full, unredacted content of the letters was not released, the context provided by the FOI response confirms the subject was the misuse of official statistics. The Commission stated that it had redacted personal information, such as names and email addresses of individuals, to comply with the Data Protection Act 2018. This is a standard procedure in FOI responses and means that while the organisations involved are known, the specific individuals are not.

Industry Significance

The disclosure demonstrates the UKGC’s commitment to its role as the authoritative source of gambling data in Great Britain. By proactively contacting media organisations, the regulator is working to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure that debates around gambling are based on accurate evidence.

This action underscores the often-contentious nature of gambling statistics, which are frequently cited by campaigners, politicians, and the industry itself to support their respective positions. The Commission's willingness to correct the record is a significant part of its function to regulate the industry in a fair, safe, and transparent manner.