What can be done about problem gambling?

The issue of problem gambling imposes substantial negative externalities upon society - with the fixed odds betting terminals (FOBTs) a particular cause of concern.

The latest report, from charity Gamble Aware, highlights the fact that the addicted gambler is spending "an average of £98 a day, place up to 90 bets and are more likely to gamble in the middle of the night, according to a new report." Read this report from the Guardian.

However, regulating the sector will prove difficult and there's a distinct possibility of government failure - and libertarians object to any intervention in this market.

Links to tweets on relevant articles on problem gambling