bookmakers-pull-new-games-after-gambling-commission-warning

Bookmakers pull new video games after Gambling Commission cautioning

2 April 2019
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Two leading UK bookies have actually pulled new high stakes wagering video games after a caution from the Gambling Commission.

Paddy Power and Betfred dealt with criticism their roulette-style video games undermined brand-new guidelines on fixed-odds betting.

The maximum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals was this promotion code week cut from ₤ 100 to ₤ 2, and the regulator warned versus any attempts to circumvent the guidelines.

Betfred stated it desired more talks with the commission, while Paddy Power said its video game was only a restricted trial.

The ₤ 2 cap on fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) was suggested by the Gambling Commission in March last year and is backed by the government as part of efforts to lower gambling-related damage.

The Betfred video 2 cyclists on a screen in shops racing on a velodrome track with numbers on it. When the cyclist at the rear captures the one in front, the yohaig code number they are on is the winning number.
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The numbers are 1 to 36, mirroring those on a roulette wheel, and other bets can be put on odd or even numbers, colours, rows and columns. Customers could bet up to ₤ 500.
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Paddy Power's game, with an optimum stake of ₤ 100 - the level before this week's FOBT rule-change - also included banking on numbers in between 1 and 36.

A Paddy Power representative stated: "this promotion code game was presented as part of a short trial in a selection of stores. The trial was stopped within 24 hr of start and this promotion code item will not be released across our estate."

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Ahead of the commission's intervention, both companies drew fire from critics. Shadow culture minister Tom Watson described them as "FOBTs through the back door".

Tracey Crouch MP, who resigned as sports minister over the hold-up in cutting FOBT stakes, said any attempt prevent today's changes to the maximum stakes "would be ethically reckless".
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In a declaration on Tuesday, Richard Watson, executive director for enforcement at the commission, said: "We have been absolutely clear with operators about our expectations to act properly following the stake cut execution this promotion code week.

"We have actually informed operators to take down new products which weaken the changes, and we will examine any other items that are not within the spirit and objective of the new rules."He stated that a 3rd bookmaker that was poised to release a comparable product to those at Paddy Power and Betfred had actually been cautioned versus doing so.
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A Betfred spokesman said: "We eliminated the virtual biking game and all associated marketing at 10.30 am this promotion code early morning after discussions with the Gambling Commission."
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