Memorandum from the Mothers Union (DGB
172)
The Mothers' Union is an Anglican voluntary
organisation with 3 million members in 75 countries worldwide,
including over 120,000 members in the UK. The organisation aims
to advance Christian marriage and family life; within this we
promote conditions in society favourable to family life and the
protection of children. The majority of our members are women
whom are actively engaged in a variety of initiatives within their
own communities.
As a family centred organisation the MU is concerned
about the potential negative consequences that may stem from changes
to gambling legislation. We would like to raise the following
concerns regarding the draft gambling bill:
— The MU is particularly concerned
that an expansion in the availability of gambling opportunities
will result in a significant increase in instances of problem
gambling. Debt incurred through excessive gambling clearly undermines
family stability; leading as it does to family breakdown, ill
health and job losses.
— Gambling is clearly an unsuitable
activity for children. The addictive nature of the pursuit means
children are vulnerable, regardless of whether they play adult
gambling machines or children's amusement machines. By allowing
children and young people under the age of 18 to gamble, the Government
sends an unclear message on the suitability of gambling as an
activity for young people. Furthermore, allowing unregulated access
to gambling machines in non-gambling venues presents a further
threat to vulnerable groups.
— We would encourage the Government
to recognise the NOP poll for the Salvation Army that shows ninety
two per cent of the population thinks there are enough opportunities
to gamble in Britain at present.
— Further research should be undertaken
to establish a clearer picture of the likely impact of liberalisation
in terms of problem gambling and the associated social costs.
We would like to stress that the social good
should not be compromised for the economic benefits to be gained
from the liberalisation of gambling.
We hope the joint committee will take our concerns
into account and we look forward to reading the report.
March 2004
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