£2 maximum FOBT bet would worsen problem gambling
It is being widely suggested in the media that the soon-to-be-announced outcome of the review of stakes and prizes on gaming machines will result in the maximum stake on B2 gaming machines being reduced to £2.
As this result would be completely irrational and perverse, of no benefit to problem gambling, and have devastating economic and social effects in and around the sector, I have decided to depart from normal practice and comment.
Bookmakers all share the government’s commitment to tackling problem gambling, but a cut to £2 will not achieve that objective. A problem gambler will still be a problem gambler, but there is less chance of them being identified and offered help if there is no human interaction.
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