The Gambling Commission suspended the licence of six AGC operators after finding they were not part of any multi-operator self-exclusion schemes, reminding fellow licensees “these are not optional requirements, they are fundamental licence conditions.” Of the original headline total of six, however, an unidentified number were speedily reinstated.

The Gambling Commission has suspended the licence of six AGC operators after identifying “unacceptable” failures in self-exclusion compliance, warning “it is important for all operators to understand the seriousness with which the Commission views these breaches.”

The decision comes after the Commission wrote to all AGC licensees earlier this year, reminding them of their obligations around self-exclusion, and describing the requirements as “a vital safeguard to protect vulnerable customers.”

“Since that reminder, we have identified several operators that were not members of one of the multi-operator self-exclusion schemes,” said a GamCom spokesperson. “In six cases, we have taken decisive regulatory action, which included immediately suspending their operating licences.”

“While some of those licences have since been reinstated following clear steps to remedy failings, all operators concerned remain under investigation, which may result in further regulatory action being taken.”

 In its latest eBulletin, the Commission reiterated that every operator must participate in a recognised, relevant multi-operator self-exclusion scheme, have effective procedures to identify and prevent self-excluded customers from gambling, train staff to manage self-exclusion, and immediately report any compliance issues to the Commission.

“These are not optional requirements, they are fundamental licence conditions. Any operator misleading the Commission about their compliance status will have their suitability as a licence holder called into question.” “We will continue to monitor and test compliance rigorously. Operators who fall short of our expectations can expect prompt and robust enforcement action, including suspension or revocation of their licence where appropriate.”

In suspense

Gambling Commission said… “While some of those licences have since been reinstated following clear steps to remedy failings, all operators concerned remain under investigation, which may result in further regulatory action being taken…