Gambling regulator to investigate new roulette-style games as fixed odds betting terminal restrictions begin

Gambling Regulator To Investigate New Roulette-Style Games As Fixed Odds Betting Terminal Restrictions Begin

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Gambling Regulator To Investigate New Roulette-Style Games As Fixed Odds Betting Terminal Restrictions Begin

Regulators have launched an investigation into the introduction of a new virtual roulette-style game by dealers as restrictions on betting machines are officially in place. 

Earlier in April 2019, a reduction of stake limit for fixed-odds betting terminals (also known as FOBTs) was brought into force, reducing the limit from £100 to £2. The aim of this new rule is to protect vulnerable players. 

 

Gambling Regulator To Investigate New Roulette-Style Games As Fixed Odds Betting Terminal Restrictions Begin
Gambling Regulator To Investigate New Roulette-Style Games As Fixed Odds Betting Terminal Restrictions Begin

 

Following the introduction of new rules, Betfred proceeded to launch the new virtual cycling game, of which the players can bet up to the amount of £500.  In response, the Gambling Commission stated that it was aware of new products, and warned that if the business fails to be responsible, it will “step in” if necessary. 

According to Betfred, the new products were “not machine games” but were over-the-counter bets. The spokesman for Betfred also added that the FOBT restrictions will see a “seismic change” on betting shops. 

Tom Watson, the Labour’s deputy leader and shadow secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport tweeted that “The gambling industry appears to be trying to cheat the system with these new roulette-style games. They clearly haven’t learned any lessons – if they won’t reform themselves a Labour government is determined to do it for them”

The cap of £2 was proposed by the Gambling Commission in March last year and was backed by the UK Government. This was part of the government’s efforts to attempt to reduce gambling-related harm. 

In relation to the new cycling game introduced by Betfred, the way it works is the 2 cyclists will be racing on a velodrome track with numbers on it. The winning number is determined by looking at the number that the 2 cyclists are on, at the time when the rear cyclist catches up with the one at the front. 

 

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