[Greens-Media] Media Release - Politics trumps evidence on gambling committee

[Blyberg, Andrew (Sen R. Di Natale)]

Media Release
 
Dr Richard Di Natale
Greens Senator for Victoria
 
07/06/13
 
Politics trumps evidence on gambling committee
 
A Greens-initiated Parliamentary Inquiry into gambling advertisements in sport has today reported its findings.
 
"Sadly the majority report reflects the views of the old parties who have again put politics before evidence," said Greens spokesperson on gambling and sport, Senator Richard Di Natale.

"Despite the broad consensus of the committee that something needs to be done to disentangle gambling advertising from sport, the old parties have baulked at taking strong action.

"While the Greens and independents have recommended legislating to end the bizarre loophole that allows gambling ads during kids' viewing times, the old parties have supported the failed approach of industry self-regulation that has got us into this mess.

"The Greens have a bill before both houses of parliament that would end gambling adds before 9pm, ban the broadcast of betting odds not just during sports broadcasts but also during sports related programs like the Footy Show, and prevent gambling promotion from being integrated into content but the old parties lack the courage to back it.

"Just like pokies reform, the old parties talked tough but squibbed it when it came to taking meaningful action.

"The Greens put this issue on the agenda earlier this year by referring the issue to the committee and we remain the only party with the conviction to stand up against the big end of town and separate gambling from sport." 

The full report from the Joint Select Committee on Gambling Reform: http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate_Committees?url=gamblingreform_ctte/gambling_sport/report/index.htm  
 
Media Contact: Andrew Blyberg 0457 901 600