Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (Northern Ireland) Order 1985
The Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (Northern Ireland) Order 1985 is a piece of legislation in Northern Ireland that regulates various forms of gambling. Its primary purpose is to provide a legal framework for controlling betting, gaming, lotteries, and amusement machines, ensuring fairness and preventing exploitation.
The Order establishes the legal basis for issuing licenses and permits for gambling operations. It outlines the conditions under which betting offices, gaming arcades, and other gambling establishments can operate. It also addresses the regulation of lotteries, including those operated by societies and local authorities.
Key aspects covered by the Order include:
- Licensing and Permits: Specifies the requirements for obtaining licenses for betting offices, gaming premises, and permits for amusement machines.
- Regulations on Gaming: Sets rules regarding the types of games allowed, stakes, and prizes.
- Lottery Regulations: Outlines the conditions under which lotteries can be conducted legally, including rules regarding ticket sales, prize distribution, and registration.
- Amusement Machines: Governs the operation of amusement machines with prizes, including restrictions on age limits and payouts.
- Enforcement Powers: Provides powers to the police and relevant authorities to enforce the provisions of the Order, including investigating illegal gambling activities and prosecuting offenders.
- Protection of Vulnerable Persons: Includes provisions aimed at protecting vulnerable individuals from the potential harms of gambling, such as underage gambling.
- Advertising and Promotion: Regulates the advertising and promotion of gambling services to ensure responsible marketing practices.
The Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (Northern Ireland) Order 1985 has been amended and supplemented by subsequent legislation and regulations. It remains a significant piece of legislation governing gambling activities in Northern Ireland.