The government has confirmed the introduction an approved sales system for National Lottery products following a short consultation in July and August.
The Minister of State for Media and Data, John Whittingdale, yesterday confirmed plans to ensure store staff who are 16 or 17 would still be able to sell lottery products if they are approved by someone over 18. This reflects the laws already in place for the sale of alcohol and for the sale of tobacco (Scotland).
The news has been welcomed by the Association of Convenience Stores. Chief executive, James Lowman, said: “We welcome the government’s decision to introduce an approved sales mechanism for National Lottery products to drive consistency of regulations across different age restricted products. We will now work to communicate this change across the sector and maintain local shops’ high level of compliance with the responsible sale of age restricted products.
“We now encourage the department to build in an approved sales system from the outset, should the Gambling Act review conclude that changes to age of play and sale for other gambling products like society lotteries are required. This will unify the way all gambling products are sold and reduce the risk of retailer and consumer confusion.”
The legislation to introduce the system alongside the full consultation response is expected to be laid and published later.
