Maximum Cash Limits on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals in UK

 

With plenty of debate amongst politicians about fixed-odds betting terminals, the United Kingdom’s government has finally made changes. They have imposed a strict cut on the maximum amount of money someone can insert into a fixed odds betting terminal.

This action is being taken to ensure that people do not lose thousands of pounds betting on these machines. Fixed odds betting terminals draw particular concern from members of the public and parliament due to their speedy nature. This legislation will go a long way towards easing those concerns.

The new regulations mean that someone cannot add than 50 pounds at one time on a fixed odds machine. If they want to go over that limit, they must inform staff at the betting location. Staff will be instructed to tell customers that they must wait a few hours, or come back the next day, if they want to gamble more.

Gamblers will also have the option of getting an online account that is linked to their usage of fixed odds machines. Many gamblers have mentioned that they get swept up in the excitement of using the machines, and often do not remember how much money they bet. Having an extensive online record will show when the money was spent, how much was spent, and what was won or lost.

Current laws allow people to lose up to 100 pounds every 20 seconds they sit at one of those machines. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport says that the new rules will go a long way towards controlling binge gambling. In addition, making payments at a counter allows more time for second thoughts.

Despite this legislation, many people wanted more changes. They are concerned about the maximum bets on these machines, and hope for a $2 maximum bet in the future.

The government agrees with those views, but they were wary of posing too many restrictions on the machines with one law. Further reviews and amendments to the law are expected in the coming years.

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