Campaign group hails Labour’s pledge to tackle FOBTs

UK political party Labour has announced a policy change surrounding fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs), in a move that has been welcomed by campaign groups.

As revealed in an article in The Sunday People newspaper, the effort is being led by Kelvin Hopkins MP, a long-term supporter of the campaign against FOBTs and now shadow spokesperson responsible for gambling.

Announcing the proposal, Hopkins said that there is “wide evidence of addiction, suicide and violence” linked to FOBTs, adding that the longer the government takes to change maximum stake regulations, “the more lives the machines will destroy”.

Punters can currently wager up to £100 (€116/$130) per spin on the machines, with campaign groups calling for this to be cut to a maximum of £2.

Speaking out in support of Labour’s policy change, Derek Webb, founder of the Campaign for Fairer Gambling, said: “This is great news and now represents a call for action from all wings of the political spectrum.

“We look forward to the Labour Party applying further pressure on the government on this very important issue.

“Surely the Conservatives can’t hold back on meaningful action for much longer?”

Related article: UK Prime Minister announces inquiry into FOBTs