A report by GamCare will probably contribute to the controversial touch-screen machines, known as fixed- odds betting terminals (FOBTs). These machines already generate nearly half the profits of some betting companies.
It will also discuss a recent report by the Association of British Bookmakers (ABB) that concluded that there is no evidence that roulette machines are closely associated with problem gambling. However, according to GamCare, people who called the helpline specifically indicated that they have developed a gambling problem ever since FOBTs have been introduced in betting shops.
GamCare’s report will be published next month featuring the details of the rise in the number of clients seeking help.
Roulette machines were first introduced in 2001 after a legal loophole generated that allowed avoiding rules that limit the payout to £25. Apparently, roulette machines are not restricted by law, despite the fact that the gaming industry agreed last year to a voluntary limit of £500.
The culture secretary initially supported a legal challenge to roulette terminals in betting shops, thought the case was dropped before it reached the high court. Ever since then it was said that FOBTs are “on probation”.
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