UK cuts stakes on FOBTs betting machines

The size of stakes gamblers can make on so-called fixed odds betting terminals (FOBTs) has been reduced from £100 now to between £50 and £2, The Telegraph reported.

The official review of the betting industry had been delayed because of the General Election.

The industry has been bracing itself for a tougher stance after all of the main opposition parties including Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the Democratic Unionist Party - which now gives the Conservatives their majority in Parliament - campaigned to cut stakes to £2.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport said it was now consulting on whether the limit players can stake in one go should be £50, £30, £20 or £2.

The gambling industry has argued that a £50 limit in betting shops already exists to a degree because gamblers who want to put more than this on one spin on a FOBT have to register this with staff, who can deny this request.

The DCMS also announced that industry players would collaborate on a two-year responsible gambling advertising campaign, while the Committees of Advertising Practice would draw up new guidelines for the sector.

Meanwhile there will be greater protection for online gamblers - a fast-growing part of the market - with the Gambling Commission set to consult on changes to the Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice next year.

"It is vital that we strike the right balance between socially responsible growth and protecting the most vulnerable, including children, from gambling-related harm," Gambling minister Tracey Crouch said.

"Given the strong evidence and public concerns about the risks of high stakes gaming machines on the high street, we are convinced of the need for action. That is why today we have set out a package of proposals to ensure all consumers and wider communities are protected.