What happened: Nearly 300 politicians and campaigners have called on Keir Starmer to abolish the 'aim to permit' rule that restricts local authorities' power to block new bookmakers and 24-hour slot machine venues.
Why it matters:
- The rule currently obliges licensing authorities to favour allowing new gambling premises, limiting community influence.
- Changing the law could impact high street gambling availability and local efforts to address related social issues.
MNN Take: The 'aim to permit' policy dates back to 2005 and was designed to liberalise gambling laws; revisiting it reflects ongoing debates about balancing business interests with community concerns.
Sources: Guardian UK