New regulations introduced as a result of the Gambling Act review are expected to have only a limited impact on the wider economy, according to a study by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR).

The report, produced with the University of Glasgow, examined the economic consequences of reforms outlined in the government’s 2023 Gambling White Paper, including online slot stake limits and stricter affordability checks.

Researchers estimated the measures could reduce gross gambling yield by up to £812m annually. However, only around £134m would represent a net loss to the wider economy once redirected consumer spending is taken into account.

The study said: “Proposals for new gambling regulations, which are projected to reduce the income of the gambling industry, are unlikely to substantially affect the UK economy in a negative way.”

Researchers argued that money no longer spent on gambling would likely be redirected towards savings, debt repayment and sectors with stronger economic multipliers, such as food, transport and leisure.

Adrian Pabst, deputy director of NIESR, said: “Industry fears about a massive hit to economic activity are overstated and also ignore the wider social benefits of the regulatory changes.”

One wonders whether Mr Pabst has factored in 270 William Hill closures and the impact that will have on local communities in job losses and rates losses. Or the impact that the transition to gambling on the black market will have because the Commission, after a decade in denial, now sees it as the biggest threat. Or how increased taxes, regulatory fee increases and no increase in stakes and prizes will hit small operators to the point of possible closure will hit the economy.

It seems there’s a blind spot when it comes to all things gambling; and all too frequently, these types of research findings sound like they’ve been written even before the first research questions have been formulated.