Chatham councillor Vince Maple says reintroduction of sports 'could encourage problem gambling'
20:01, 04 June 2020
updated: 20:30, 04 June 2020
A Kent councillor has said the reintroduction of sports could lead to a surge in problem gambling in the county.
Medway Council's Labour leader Vince Maple says those in social isolation may turn to betting as a form of distraction.
He has called for companies to put better safeguards in place to protect people - KMTV's Louisa Britton speaks to the Chatham councillor about what more can be done.
During the interview Vince Maple said: "As we can see from the data which has come out in the last couple of weeks is a very concerning level of people signing up ton online gambling, spending huge amounts of money very quickly.
"My concern is with the return of sports that may put pressure on individuals who are stuck in isolation and are seeking to use gambling as some form of distraction from boredom.
"The reality is with some people that will lead to problem gambling."
