Bookmakers pull brand-new games after Gambling Commission cautioning

2 April 2019

Two leading UK bookies have pulled brand-new high stakes wagering games after a warning from the Gambling Commission.

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

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

Betfred said it desired more talks with the commission, while Paddy Power stated its game was only a restricted trial.

the yohaig code ₤ 2 cap on fixed-odds wagering terminals (FOBTs) was suggested by the Gambling Commission in March last year and is backed by the government as part of efforts to minimize gambling-related harm.

The Betfred game involved 2 bicyclists on a screen in stores racing on a velodrome track with numbers on it. When the cyclist at the rear captures the one in front, the number they are on is the winning number.

the yohaig code numbers are 1 to 36, matching those on a live roulette wheel, and other bets can be put on odd or even numbers, colours, rows and columns. Customers could wager 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 wagering on numbers between 1 and 36.

A Paddy Power spokesperson stated: "this promotion code video game was introduced as part of a brief trial in a selection of shops. The trial was ceased within 24 hr of commencement and this promotion code product will not be introduced throughout our estate."

Act properly

Ahead of the commission's intervention, both companies drew fire from critics. Shadow culture minister Tom Watson explained them as "FOBTs through the back door".

Tracey Crouch MP, who resigned as sports minister over the yohaig code hold-up in cutting FOBT stakes, said any attempt circumvent today's modifications to the yohaig code maximum stakes "would be morally reckless".

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

"We have actually told operators to remove new products which undermine the modifications, and we will examine any other items that are not within the spirit and objective of the new guidelines."He said that a third bookie that was poised to launch a comparable product to those at Paddy Power and Betfred had been warned against doing so.

A Betfred representative stated: "We removed the virtual biking game and all associated marketing at 10.30 am this early morning after conversations with the Gambling Commission."

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