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Government review of gaming machines and social responsibility measures published

17 May 2018

The Government has published its review of gaming machines and social responsibility measures.

As part of the review (opens in new tab) the Government has decided that it will reduce the maximum stake on an FOBT [B2] to £2.

In March the Gambling Commission published its advice to Government – advice aimed at reducing the risks that consumers, especially those that are vulnerable, face from gambling.

Gambling Commission Chief Executive Neil McArthur said: “We’re pleased Government has supported a comprehensive package of measures to protect consumers, and that this includes a substantial stake cut. Whilst we welcome the reduced stake, that alone will not be enough to address the risks of harm that can come from all forms of gambling.

“That is why we will continue to act in other ways to reduce those risks– including delivering enhanced consumer protection for online gambling in the areas of customer verification, fairness and interaction, implementing strong penalties for businesses who breach advertising guidelines, and reviewing gambling product characteristics to identify whether particular features pose greater risk of harm than others.

“We are particularly pleased that Government has formally recognised gambling related harm as a public health issue and has asked Public Health England to conduct an evidence review to inform action on prevention and treatment. This marks an important step forward in understanding the wider harms that problem gambling can have in our communities.”

“It should not be forgotten that tackling gambling-related harm is a complex issue, so we will support the Government in monitoring the impact that any of the changes announced today will have.”

Note to editors

  1. How do machine gamblers feel about tracked play? – research conducted by Populus
  2. Review of the research, education and treatment (RET) arrangements
  3. More information about gaming machine categories
  4. More information about how we regulate the gambling industry.
  5. Useful statistics on the gambling industry.

Journalists can contact our press office on 0121 230 6700 or email: communications@gamblingcommission.gov.uk

For all media enquiries, please contact the Gambling Commission press office.

Last updated: 11 August 2021

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