Gambling firms spent nearly £5m to advertise on TfL since London mayor’s ban pledge
Gambling companies have spent nearly £5 million on TfL advertising despite Sadiq Khan's pledge to ban such ads.Summary
Since London Mayor Sadiq Khan pledged to ban gambling advertisements on Transport for London (TfL), gambling firms have spent nearly £5 million on advertising on the network. Khan made the pledge during his 2021 mayoral campaign, citing the “devastating” impact of gambling addiction, but has yet to implement the ban, citing a lack of guidance from the central government regarding the link between gambling ads and harm. The number of gambling ads has actually increased, reaching 223 campaigns this year, more than double last year’s number. Over Khan’s three terms, gambling firms have spent over £7.5 million with TfL. Critics argue Khan should proceed with the ban regardless of national guidance, pointing to successful bans implemented by other English councils. The DCMS states more work is needed to ensure gambling advertising doesn't lead to harm, while the Betting and Gaming Council disputes advertising spending figures.
(Source：The Guardian)