If you play casino games, then you probably love the fast-paced nature of Slots orthe classy demeanour of table games, having fun as you attempt to bag some prizes. But do you know all there is to know about the gambling laws in placewhilst you play, that apply to both land-based and online casinos in the UK?
These laws are put in place to ensure your safety whilst you take part in your favourite casino games, so it’s worth making yourself aware of the main rules and regulations.
And you’re in luck, asin this article we will run you through some of the main gambling laws in the UK. We’ll also give you a bit of a history lesson, exploring the past casino legislation, to see how much the casino scene has evolved over the years.
Keep reading to find out more.
The 1960 Betting and Gaming Act — 1960
In the mid-20th century,casino gaming was a popular pastime and many individuals took part in it, despite not having designated venues in which to play. Instead, gamers would play in the streets, or in any space that they could acquire, since gambling was not regulated.
However, in 1960, the British parliament passed the Betting and Gaming Act, which legalised gambling for small prizes. This law was passed on 1stJanuary 1961, and meant that betting shops could open, giving fans of the games a safe space to play.
It also meant that any individuals caught playing in the streets would be fined, since it was considered disruptive.
The Gambling Act — 2005
In the late 1990s, casino gaming became digital, taking over the world wide web. This meant that players could dip into their favourite games without having to leave their homes, making gaming more convenient and accessible.
As a result, the popularity of gambling increased, and the British parliament realised that the gambling laws had become outdated and needed to be revised. In 2005, a new Gambling Act was created, regulating, licencing and overseeing all of the gambling that took place in the UK. This law applied to both land-based and online casinos, keeping players safe, wherever and whenever they played.
The present gambling laws that apply in the UK
Nowadays, casino gaming is more thrilling than ever. At Paddy Power online casino, for example, you can enjoy an unrivalled selection of games, including immersive live casino games and video Slots.
One of the main laws that applies today, when playing at land-based casinos and online, is that you must be at least 18 years old in order to play. This is to protect young players, since casino games involve real money.
In addition, a new law was brought into place in April 2020, to help prevent players from spending more than they can afford. This law banned players from using credit cards as a form of payment, applying to online and land-based casinos alike.
Of course, you should familiarise yourself with the main gambling laws that apply in the UK before you start playing at a casino in Britain. In addition, online casinos usually have their own set of rules and regulations that apply when you sign up to your site. So, make sure you do your research, stay safe and most of all, have fun!
