Labour wants to scrap betting adverts on football kits
September 6, 2017
Labour deputy leader Tom Watson says the party would impose a ban on betting firms advertising on football kits if it came to power.
A total of nine Premier League clubs currently have kits sponsored by betting companies and Watson is adamant football needs to “play its part in tackling Britain’s hidden epidemic of gambling addiction”.
Gambling on football fixtures was reportedly worth £1.4 ($1.8) billion to bookmakers over a one-year period, figures revealed earlier this year.
Mr Watson, who also serves as Labour’s shadow culture secretary, said: “Shirt sponsorship sends out a message that football clubs don’t take problem gambling among their own fans seriously enough.
“It puts gambling brands in front of fans of all ages, not just at matches but on broadcasts and highlights packages on both commercial television and the BBC.”
Labour also said it would work with in conjunction with the FA before considering formal legislation.
READ MORE: The pros and cons of betting sponsorship in football