[holding answer 22 February 2008]: The Scoping Study for a UK Gambling Act, 2005 Impact Assessment Framework was commissioned in May 2006 and scheduled for completion in November 2006.
We did not stipulate a publication date but I expect that it will be published shortly. The cost of producing the study was approximately £50,000.
[holding answer 22 February 2008]: No figures are currently available for the number of adult gaming centres (AGCs) or for any other type of licensed gambling premises in operation.
Licensing authorities are responsible for providing information on the number of AGC premises licences they have issued to the Gambling Commission but complete information is not yet available. The Gambling Commission will publish information on the number of AGC premises licences issued by licensing authorities in due course.
[holding answer 22 February 2008]: I am currently considering representations that have been made to me by the British Amusement Catering Trades Association (BACTA) and others about what it is claimed has been the financial impact of the Gambling Act 2005 on adult gaming centres. I hope to be able to respond to BACTA’s campaign shortly.