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

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Bookmakers pull new games after Gambling Commission warning
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2 April 2019
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Two leading UK bookies have actually pulled new high stakes betting video games after a warning from the Gambling Commission.
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Paddy Power and Betfred faced criticism their roulette-style games weakened new guidelines on fixed-odds wagering.
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The maximum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals was this promotion code week cut from ₤ 100 to ₤ 2, and the regulator alerted versus any attempts to circumvent the rules.

Betfred stated it wanted more talks with the commission, while Paddy Power said its game was just a limited trial.

The ₤ 2 cap on fixed-odds wagering terminals (FOBTs) was advised by the Gambling Commission in March in 2015 and is backed by the federal government as part of efforts to reduce gambling-related harm.
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the yohaig code Betfred game involved two cyclists on a screen in stores 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, matching those on a live roulette wheel, and other bets can be put on odd and even numbers, colours, rows and columns. Customers could bet as much as ₤ 500.
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Paddy Power's game, with a maximum stake of ₤ 100 - the level before this promotion code week's FOBT rule-change - likewise involved banking on numbers between 1 and 36.

A Paddy Power representative stated: "This video game was presented as part of a short trial in a selection of stores. The trial was ceased within 24 hours of commencement and this product will not be introduced 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 hold-up in cutting FOBT stakes, said any attempt prevent to the maximum stakes "would be ethically irresponsible".

In a declaration on Tuesday, Richard Watson, executive director for enforcement at the commission, stated: "We have actually been definitely clear with operators about our expectations to act properly following the stake cut execution this promotion code week.
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"We have actually told operators to remove new products which weaken the changes, and we will investigate any other products that are not within the spirit and objective of the brand-new rules."He stated that a 3rd bookmaker that was poised to introduce a similar product to those at Paddy Power and Betfred had been cautioned against doing so.
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A Betfred representative said: "We removed the virtual cycling video game and all associated marketing at 10.30 am today after discussions with the Gambling Commission."

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