FOBTs under scrutiny as government launches review

The government on Monday launched its long-awaited review of gambling which could have dramatic consequences for both the betting industry and for British horseracing.

The government said the review would cover the maximum stakes and prizes for gaming machines, including those known as fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) which have been the subject of a sustained onslaught from campaigners, politicians and media calling for their use to be heavily restricted.

The number and location of gaming machines and social responsibility measures to protect players from gambling-related harm are also included in the review.