The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) could receive additional financial resources as the UK government moves forward with plans to revise the regulator’s funding structure, aiming to strengthen enforcement and keep pace with a rapidly evolving gambling sector.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is reviewing the fees paid by licensed gambling operators, with proposals designed to provide the Commission with a more sustainable source of funding. The consultation follows growing pressure on the regulator to tackle illegal gambling, improve consumer protections and oversee a more complex market.
Under the proposals, licence fees paid by operators could increase, with one option previously outlined by the government involving an uplift of around 30%. Officials argue that the current fee structure no longer reflects the scale of the Commission’s responsibilities, which have expanded significantly in recent years.
The additional funding would help the UKGC continue its efforts against unlicensed gambling operators, strengthen compliance monitoring and support the implementation of new regulatory measures introduced through the UK’s gambling reforms. The regulator has already intensified enforcement activity, targeting illegal operators and increasing scrutiny of licensed businesses.
Industry stakeholders are expected to examine closely how any increase in fees would affect operators of different sizes. While many recognise the importance of effective regulation, concerns remain about ensuring that costs remain proportionate and do not place unnecessary pressure on smaller businesses.
The Commission’s workload has grown as it oversees new player protection requirements, responsible gambling measures and anti-money laundering obligations. Recent regulatory initiatives have included stricter deposit-limit rules, enhanced compliance checks and broader efforts to reduce gambling-related harm.
The consultation is part of a wider government effort to modernise gambling regulation in Great Britain and ensure the regulator has the resources needed to respond to future challenges. Once feedback is reviewed, DCMS will determine whether changes to the licence fee structure should be implemented and when any new charges would come into effect.