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

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Bookmakers pull brand-new video games after Gambling Commission warning

2 April 2019
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Two leading UK bookies have pulled new high stakes wagering video games after a caution from the Gambling Commission.
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Paddy Power and Betfred dealt with criticism their roulette-style games weakened brand-new guidelines on fixed-odds betting.

The optimum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals was this week cut from ₤ 100 to ₤ 2, and the regulator warned against any attempts to circumvent the rules.
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Betfred stated it desired more talks with the commission, while Paddy Power stated its game was only a limited trial.

the yohaig code ₤ 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 decrease gambling-related harm.
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The Betfred video game involved two bicyclists on a screen in stores racing on a velodrome track with numbers on it. When the bicyclist 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 roulette wheel, and other bets can be put on odd or even numbers, colours, rows and columns. Customers could wager as much as ₤ 500.
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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 in between 1 and 36.

A Paddy Power spokesperson said: "this promotion code video game was presented as part of a short trial in a choice of shops. the yohaig code trial was ceased within 24 hours of commencement and this product will not be released across our estate."

Act responsibly

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 delay in cutting FOBT stakes, stated any effort prevent today's modifications to the "would be morally careless".
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In a statement on Tuesday, Richard Watson, executive director for enforcement at the commission, stated: "We have actually been absolutely clear with operators about our expectations to act responsibly following the stake cut application today.

"We have informed operators to take down brand-new items which undermine the modifications, and we will examine any other products that are not within the spirit and intent of the brand-new guidelines."He stated that a 3rd bookmaker that was poised to release a similar item to those at Paddy Power and Betfred had been warned versus doing so.

A Betfred spokesperson stated: "We eliminated the virtual biking video game and all associated marketing at 10.30 am today after conversations with the Gambling Commission."

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