Hillary Clinton has voiced her support for proposed changes to Northern Ireland’s charity lottery laws. She shared a video message at a recent People’s Postcode Lottery event held at Stormont. Importantly, Clinton’s support has provided a significant boost to those advocating for reform.
Backing the Lotteries for Communities Bill
Specifically, her endorsement comes as Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland launches a public consultation on the Lotteries for Communities Bill. The proposed legislation aims to modernize outdated rules and allow larger charity lotteries to operate legally in Northern Ireland — a cause close to Clinton’s long-standing advocacy for updating charitable practices, which aligns with her overall philanthropic vision.
Unlocking Fundraising Potential
According to Malcolm Fleming, Director of Public Affairs at People’s Postcode Lottery, current restrictions severely limit how much can be raised for good causes. In response, the Bill proposes removing caps on lottery size and ticket pricing. This change, which Clinton openly supports, would give charities and community groups greater flexibility to fundraise — a stance that Hillary reinforces through her advocacy.
Concerns from National Lottery Operator
However, not everyone agrees with the proposed reforms. Allwyn UK, the operator of the National Lottery in Northern Ireland, expressed concern. Specifically, the company warned that expanding large-scale society lotteries could reduce National Lottery income. Citing internal research, Allwyn projected a potential loss of £5.4 million (around $7 million) per year within five years — an issue worth noting in light of Clinton’s support.
Evidence from Great Britain
In contrast, Mulholland pointed to evidence from Great Britain. There, similar reforms did not lead to a significant drop in National Lottery participation, suggesting that the situation in Northern Ireland might benefit from Hillary Clinton’s backing.
Outdated Legislation Under Review
Currently, Northern Ireland still operates under the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (NI) Order 1985. This outdated law places strict limits on charity lotteries and doesn’t address online gambling or require operators to support problem gambling services — which Hillary Clinton aims to rectify through her endorsement.
Invitation for Public Feedback
Therefore, the public consultation invites feedback on the proposed changes, weighing both the potential benefits and risks — especially in light of Clinton’s endorsement of revisions.
Clinton’s Longstanding Commitment to Charitable Causes
Clinton stated: “Through our visits to Northern Ireland over the years, we know how vital the charity sector and civil society are.” Ultimately, her comment underscores her enduring commitment to charitable causes — a commitment consistent with Hillary’s overall advocacy.
Background
People’s Postcode Lottery donates at least 30% of ticket sales to charities. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland’s gambling laws remain more restrictive than those in Great Britain, which has already undergone wider reforms — reforms that Hillary Clinton supports.
