SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Amusement industry trade body BACTA has called on the UK government to allow FOBT machines to be allowed in gaming and amusement halls.
In a letter to MPs and peers, the organisation said that it is unfair to let betting shops ‘reap all the benefits from the profitable machines’, and that they should be allowed in ‘any regulated adult-only gambling establishment’.
“The current situation… makes no sense and gives the bookmakers an unfair advantage,” BACTA said in the letter. “If the Government deems [£50] a safe limit for bookmakers there is no reason that it is not safe for everybody.”
‘How can the Government say, ‘No’ when they are saying to bookies that it is OK to have them?’ it added.
A spokesman from the Department for Culture Media and Sport said: “The rules around where FOBTs can be based are very clear and they will not be moving into other areas.”
