Sunday, March 18, 2007

The Salvation Army has said it is "deeply concerned" by the possible effects
of new gambling advertising regulations on society. Captain Matt Spencer,
from The Salvation Army's Public Affairs Unit, said: "Despite some
safeguards that appear to be incorporated into the new guidelines, The
Salvation Army remains deeply concerned about the introduction of new
gambling advertising and the potential effect that this may have on
society." Now The Salvation Army fears that an increase in gambling
advertising will lead to an increase in the number of gambling addicts.
"Adverts are designed to stimulate demand and, as gambling advertising
increases, our fear is that more people will be drawn into an addiction
which can be devastating for individuals, families and the communities in
which they live," said Captain Spencer. Gambling advertising may also
normalise gambling, he added. "Advertising may also have the effect of
further 'normalising' gambling in our culture, but gambling should not be
considered a normal 'leisure' activity since it can be highly addictive and
damaging. "The effects of increased gambling advertising need to be closely
monitored to assess its impact on gambling trends and any associated
potential rise in problem gambling."