Government to review fixed odds betting terminals and maximum stakes
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has launched a call for evidence on a range of issues affecting the gambling industry, including the maximum stakes and prizes for gaming machines across all premises licensed under the Gambling Act 2005.
The review of fixed odds betting terminals follows concerns expressed by local authorities, led by the London Borough of Newham.
The DCMS said the call for evidence would also look at the number and location of gaming machines across all licensed premises; and social responsibility measures to protect players and communities from gambling-related harm.
Minister for Gambling Tracey Crouch said: “It is important that gambling regulations strike the right balance between allowing the industry to contribute to the economy and enable people to bet responsibly whilst ensuring consumers and communities are protected.
“This review will gather evidence to fully assess current rules and protocols in the gambling sector and to help inform the government to make decisions on any necessary amendments to gambling regulation.
“The call for evidence period begins immediately and will close on 4 December. Government will then consider proposals based on robust evidence.”
The call for evidence was welcomed by the Mayor of Newham, Sir Robin Wales. He said: “[This] statement shows the Government is finally listening to local people by committing to look at the harm done to communities by these high stake gaming machines.
“We welcome the statement that gambling legislation must ensure consumers and communities are protected. That is the reason we have led a campaign, backed by 92 local authorities from across the country and political spectrum, to reduce the amount that can be bet on FOBTs. These machines, dubbed the crack-cocaine of gambling, allow up £100 to be bet every 20 seconds. We want that reduced to £2.”
Sir Robin argued that reducing the stake would force bookmakers “to think again about the number of betting shops they open on the high street”.
Sarah Harrison, Gambling Commission chief executive, said: “We’re very pleased that the review has been announced and that we have a clear timetable – it offers an excellent opportunity for all those with an interest in gambling to ensure their voices are heard. I would encourage any interested parties to share their views with government.
“As the regulator of gambling in Britain and committed to keeping gambling fair, safe and crime-free, we will be submitting our advice to Government in line with our statutory duties.
“Our advice, which will be informed by our expert advisors the Responsible Gambling Strategy Board, will be made public after it is submitted. Obviously it would be inappropriate to offer a running commentary as the review progresses.”
