Ms Carol Boate:

I understand what the Deputy is saying. I understand the point he is making. I will tell the Deputy what is of concern to me and what I am doing right now. Perhaps after I have done the things I am planning to do, I will consider the question the Deputy has understandably asked me. I am concerned that the increase in the number of outlets is matched by an increase in the resources going into overseeing, monitoring and supporting every retail outlet. What is very important is how national lottery tickets are sold or not sold. As I mentioned earlier, the sales and advertising codes apply equally to every type of outlet and to every individual outlet. It is the operator's responsibility to make sure every outlet is selling tickets responsibly. That includes things like having very visible signs about it being an over-18s product. It should be very clear it is only for over-18s. They are obliged not to sell to anybody under 18 and if they think a person might be under 18 they must ask for identification. They are obliged to engage in responsible selling and there are training videos, posters and materials to support that. The operator is obliged to monitor this and make sure it is happening. I then monitor the operator and hold the operator to account. If there is a large increase in the number of outlets, as the Deputy has correctly pointed out, there should be a corresponding adjustment to the resources and tools being used by the operator to oversee them. I launched a number of reviews and initiatives this year to ensure and check it is actually happening on the ground.