Emma Beddington, a Guardian columnist, has called for a ban on gambling advertisements in the UK, drawing inspiration from Amsterdam's recent prohibition of public ads for meat and fossil fuel products. She criticises the pervasive and misleading nature of gambling ads, particularly those featuring celebrities like Danny Dyer for Paddy Power.
The Case Against Gambling Ads
Beddington argues that gambling advertisements are 'grotesquely disingenuous and cynical,' portraying betting as glamorous and fun while hiding the devastating consequences. She points to research showing a direct link between ad exposure and gambling activity, and polling data indicating that 70% of people want tougher regulation, with 27% supporting an outright ban.
She highlights that slot shops are concentrated in deprived areas, preying on those who can least afford to gamble, and that addiction can lead to financial ruin and even death. The columnist also references a 2025 high court judgment revealing that a problem gambler received 1,300 targeted emails over two years from betting companies.
Other Ads She Would Ban
Beyond gambling, Beddington lists other ads she dislikes, including the 'See it, say it, sorted' campaign, overly friendly bank ads, catchy jingles, and wellness products. However, she emphasises that gambling ads are the most harmful and should be prioritised for removal.
She concludes that betting firms should be disqualified from advertising space, as they are 'definitely worse than burgers.' The article invites readers to submit letters of up to 300 words for publication.
