Calls are growing for the UK Gambling Commission to halt its proposed financial risk checks. This comes after Dr. James Noyes urged the government to pause the policy until the regulator completes a full evaluation of its pilot scheme.
In an open letter to UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, Noyes said the checks should be suspended “until there has been adequate evaluation and scrutiny” of the pilot. He cited concerns about transparency and customer impact. The intervention is notable as Noyes was previously an early supporter of affordability checks when the policy was first proposed in 2020.
Concerns Over Lack of Transparency
The Gambling Commission launched its pilot of “financial risk assessments” in September 2024, testing a two-tier system intended to identify signs of gambling-related harm. The approach is also meant to maintain a frictionless customer experience. However, the regulator has not published a final report and has provided no formal public update since spring 2025.
Media reports have suggested the commission’s board may consider approving the checks at a meeting next month. Consequently, this has prompted renewed scrutiny from stakeholders.
Racing Industry Warns of Disproportionate Impact
Noyes said he was “deeply concerned” by reports of inconsistent data, unclear outcomes, and unnecessary friction during the pilot. He also warned that the measures could prove particularly damaging to horse racing bettors. This echoed long-standing concerns raised by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).
Racing leaders have argued that the checks could drive customers away from regulated betting operators. As a result, this could potentially push more activity toward illegal markets and cost the sport tens of millions of pounds in lost revenue.
Support Was Conditional
While Noyes previously backed affordability checks in principle, he said his support depended on safeguards such as a gambling ombudsman, non-intrusive risk assessments, and a framework that prevents harm. The system must also not restrict most consumers from lawful gambling.
He argued that the current approach raises unresolved questions. Therefore, he called on the government to pause the policy until authorities properly review the pilot results.
Gambling Commission Says Work Continues
A spokesperson for the Gambling Commission said the regulator is still working on financial risk assessments, with a key focus on removing consumer friction. The commission reiterated that customers would not need to submit financial documents if the policy is introduced. Additionally, regulators will assess potential impacts on consumers and businesses before they make any final decision.
