UKGC Silent on Royalux Competitions Complaints

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The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has refused to confirm or deny whether it holds any information regarding complaints made against Royalux Competitions, according to a Freedom of Information (FOI) response.

The response, issued following a request dated 29 December 2022, highlights the regulator's cautious approach to disclosures that could impact its enforcement activities.

The Request and Response

A member of the public submitted a formal FOI request for a copy of all information held by the Commission concerning complaints received about Royalux Competitions. The request sought emails, written correspondence, and records of calls.

In its official reply, the UKGC declined to provide the information, and also refused to confirm whether such information even exists. The regulator invoked Section 31(3) of the Freedom of Information Act 2000, an exemption related to law enforcement.

Why The Secrecy?

The UKGC explained that its primary role is to regulate the industry and take action against operators for licence breaches, not to act as a consumer ombudsman for individual disputes. Information from complaints is used to inform its regulatory strategy and build cases.

By issuing a "neither confirm nor deny" response, the Commission aims to protect the integrity of its processes. The regulator argued that confirming or denying the existence of complaints or investigations could:

• Alert an operator to regulatory scrutiny, allowing them to alter behaviour or destroy evidence.
• Compromise the openness of individuals sharing sensitive information with the Commission.
• Unfairly associate an operator with unsubstantiated allegations before a formal investigation is complete.

The UKGC conducted a public interest test, concluding that the need to protect its ability to conduct effective investigations outweighed the public interest in immediate transparency for this specific request.

What This Means for Consumers

For consumers researching gambling operators, this type of response creates an information vacuum. It does not confirm that Royalux Competitions has been the subject of complaints, nor does it clear the company of any potential issues.

This stance is standard procedure for the UKGC when dealing with requests that could touch upon ongoing or potential regulatory work. The Commission's policy is to only release details of its enforcement activity through public statements after a formal regulatory decision or settlement has been reached. Until then, consumers are left without official insight into any complaints that may or may not have been filed.