The First–tier Tribunal (Gambling) is an independent body set up to hear appeals against the decisions of the Gambling Commission (the Commission).

The Gambling Commission issues operating licences to companies, as well as personal functional and personal management licences to people in key management positions.

Licence holders, and applicants, have a right of appeal to the Tribunal against the decisions of the Commission relating to their existing licence or licence application.

About us

The Gambling Act 2005 established the creation of the First-tier Tribunal (Gambling) which was transferred to the First–tier Tribunal (Gambling) on 18th January 2010 following reforms of the Tribunal system by the Tribunals Courts and Enforcement Act 2007. The Act applies to England, Wales and Scotland.

The First-tier Tribunal (Gambling) forms part of the Tribunal Service, an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice. The Tribunal has 12 Judges. All appeals are heard by one or more judicial members. The composition and complement of each panel varies according to the complexity of the case. The majority of appeals will be heard by a single Judge with difficult cases requiring three legal panel members, one of whom will be designated as the Chairman.

Tribunal Judiciary are appointed by the Lord Chancellor following recommendation from the Judicial Appointments Commission.

The Tribunal is administered from Arnhem House, Leicester, and all correspondence should be sent to that address (see below).