• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Bookmakers pull new video games after Gambling Commission alerting

2 April 2019

Two leading UK bookmakers have pulled new high stakes betting games after a warning from the Gambling Commission.

Paddy Power and Betfred faced criticism their roulette-style games undermined brand-new rules on fixed-odds wagering.

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

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

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

The Betfred game involved two bicyclists on a screen in shops racing on a velodrome track with numbers on it. When the bicyclist at the rear catches the one in front, the number they are on is the winning number.

The numbers are 1 to 36, mirroring those on a live roulette wheel, and other bets can be put on odd or even numbers, colours, rows and columns. Customers might wager up to ₤ 500.

Paddy Power's game, with an optimum stake of ₤ 100 - the level before this promotion code week's FOBT rule-change - also involved banking on numbers in between 1 and 36.

A Paddy Power spokesperson said: "this promotion code video game was presented as part of a brief trial in a choice of stores. The trial was ceased within 24 hr of start and this promotion code item will not be released across our estate."

Act properly

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

Tracey Crouch MP, who resigned as sports minister over the hold-up in cutting FOBT stakes, stated any effort prevent today's changes to the maximum stakes "would be morally reckless".

In a statement on Tuesday, Richard Watson, executive director for enforcement at the commission, said: "We have been absolutely clear with operators about our expectations to act responsibly following the stake cut execution today.

"We have told operators to remove brand-new items which weaken the changes, and we will examine any other products that are not within the spirit and objective of the brand-new rules."He said that a third bookie that was poised to launch a similar item to those at Paddy Power and Betfred had actually been cautioned against doing so.

A Betfred spokesman said: "We removed the virtual cycling video game and all associated marketing at 10.30 am this promotion code early morning after with the Gambling Commission."

Bookmakers alerted over fixed-odds stake cut

30 March 2019

Most clubs 'don't stop children betting'

15 November 2018