Betting Checks: Striking the Right Balance for Racing and Responsibility

In recent weeks, many people across Newbury and West Berkshire have contacted me about proposed changes to betting checks.

These concerns relate to new “financial risk assessments” being introduced by the Gambling Commission, and the potential impact on people who enjoy betting on horse racing.

Horse racing is a significant part of our local and national life. We are proud to be home to Lambourn, the “Valley of the Racehorse”, and close to Newbury Racecourse. The sport supports jobs, attracts visitors, and plays an important role in our local economy.

At the same time, gambling-related harm is real, and vulnerable people must be protected. I support effective safeguards as part of the Government’s broader gambling reforms. The key challenge is getting the balance right.

Many constituents are concerned that the proposed checks could require people to share sensitive financial information, such as bank statements or payslips, even for low‑level or occasional betting. For many, this feels intrusive and disproportionate.

Questions have also been raised about how reliable and consistent these checks would be in practice, particularly where they rely on credit reference data. There is evidence that public confidence in such checks is low.

There is also concern about unintended consequences. If regulated betting becomes too intrusive, some people may be pushed towards unregulated and unsafe alternatives.

Ministers and regulators must ensure that any new system is proportionate, respects personal privacy, protects those most at risk, and works in practice for both consumers and operators.

I will be raising these concerns with ministers, including Lisa Nandy MP, to ensure local voices are heard as decisions are finalised. This is not about opposing safeguards, but about ensuring they are fair, workable, and do not harm communities and industries like racing that matter so much to our area.

If you have contacted me about this issue, thank you.