Government pressed on transparency over Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group

The Government has been questioned in Parliament over its lack of updates on the work of the Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group, following two written questions tabled by Bob Blackman MP.

Blackman referenced earlier answers provided in April on gambling regulation and horse racing, asking why the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) had not provided further information on the Advisory Group’s activity. He also sought a recent assessment of the Group’s work.

Responding on behalf of the Government, Gambling Minister Ian Murray said the evaluation of the Gambling Act Review is being carried out independently by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), with findings due to be published later this year on GOV.UK.

Murray clarified that the Advisory Group’s role is limited to offering objective, external methodological advice to NatCen. It does not contribute to policy development, nor does it have access to any collected data. Its purpose is to support the design and implementation of the evaluation to ensure it meets “the highest possible standards”.

Because of this narrow remit, Murray confirmed that there are no plans for the Government to assess the Group’s work as part of the evaluation’s published findings.

He also reiterated that the evaluation focuses on the real‑world impact of measures already implemented under the Gambling Act Review. Measures not yet introduced—such as financial risk assessments—are not included. However, NatCen is working alongside the pilot of financial risk assessments to advise on methodology, data clarity and transparency. The Gambling Commission has committed to ongoing review and adaptation should financial risk assessments be formally introduced.