Bookmakers pull brand-new video games after Gambling Commission alerting

2 April 2019

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

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

the yohaig code maximum stake on fixed-odds wagering terminals was today cut from ₤ 100 to ₤ 2, and the regulator cautioned against any efforts to circumvent the guidelines.

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

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

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

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

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

A Paddy Power spokesman stated: "This video game was presented as part of a short trial in a choice of shops. The trial was ceased within 24 hours of beginning and this promotion code product will not be launched throughout 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 hold-up in cutting FOBT stakes, said any attempt circumvent this week's changes to the optimal stakes "would be morally irresponsible".

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

"We have informed operators to take down brand-new items which undermine the modifications, and we will examine any other items that are not within the spirit and objective of the new rules."He stated that a 3rd bookie that was poised to release a similar product to those at Paddy Power and Betfred had actually been cautioned against doing so.

A Betfred spokesperson stated: "We got rid of the virtual biking video game and all associated marketing at 10.30 am this early morning after conversations with the Gambling Commission."

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