It’s as if Bookmakers are multiplying on our high streets!

Since our Labour MP Tessa Jowell brought about The Gambling Act 2005 changing the premise for granting gambling licences from an operator having to prove “un-stimulated demand” for betting in a location to NO proof of need. Effectively she created a free for all.

She also liberalised slot machines making betting shops even more profitable.

Southwark Council is a major land and shop owner in Southwark and the Labour led council hasn’t decided to stop letting shops to bookmakers.

So it is ironic that local Labour councillor Rowena Davis has started a petition against legislation of the former Labour Government.

Either Way please do tell the council Labour leader Peter.John@southwark.gov.uk asking him to ensure Labour led Southwark Council avoid letting properties to betting shops BUT especially tell your MP that you want The Gambling Act 2005 revoked and a return to the previous requirement of applicants proving a local need and asking that all existing betting shops need to reapply.

NB. Near the start of my worknig life I was a betting shop manager for 6 months. A wild experience where I learnt a great deal about me and also experienced the deep sadness of seeing people blowing wage packets. I learnt first hand how critical it is to limit Betting Shops.