Bookmakers pull new video games after Gambling Commission cautioning

2 April 2019

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

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

The optimum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals was today cut from ₤ 100 to ₤ 2, and the regulator cautioned against any attempts to prevent the yohaig code guidelines.

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

The ₤ 2 cap on fixed-odds wagering terminals (FOBTs) was suggested by the Gambling Commission in March in 2015 and is backed by the government as part of efforts to minimize gambling-related damage.

The Betfred game included 2 bicyclists 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 number they are on is the winning number.

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

Paddy Power's video game, with a maximum stake of ₤ 100 - the level before this promotion code week's FOBT rule-change - likewise included banking on numbers between 1 and 36.

A Paddy Power spokesman said: "this promotion code video game was presented as part of a short trial in a selection of stores. The trial was stopped within 24 hours of beginning and this product will not be released throughout 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 door".

Tracey Crouch MP, who resigned as sports minister over the delay in cutting FOBT stakes, said any effort circumvent this week's changes to the yohaig code maximum stakes "would be ethically irresponsible".

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

"We have actually informed operators to take down brand-new products which weaken the changes, and we will investigate any other items that are not within the spirit and intention of the brand-new guidelines."He stated that a third bookmaker that was poised to launch a similar item to those at Paddy Power and Betfred had been alerted against doing so.

A Betfred spokesman said: "We removed the virtual cycling video game and all associated marketing at 10.30 am today after conversations with the Gambling Commission."

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