MSPs Seek Betting Machine Controls

A Parliamentary committee is consulting on the impact of devolving powers on fixed odds betting terminals to Holyrood.

The gaming machines - usually found in pub, arcades and betting shops - offer prizes of up to £500 on games like roulette and blackjack. They currently fall under betting legislation controlled by Westminster. MSPs want the power to control the number of machines in any one premises.

Kevin Stewart MSP, the convenor of the Local Government and Regeneration Committee, said: 

"Fixed odds betting terminals have become a familiar site in betting shops across the country. But these are not without controversy. Tales of addiction and loss are not hard to find. The Scotland Bill proposes devolving power over these machines to the Scottish Government and our Committee will be examining what this will mean in practice and what impact this is likely to have for communities where these machines are prevalent.

"The Scottish Government has already said the proposed Scotland Bill powers don’t go far enough and we will look at what alternative proposals would mean for Scotland’s high streets. The Committee has today launched a call for written submissions and in particular is keen to hear from those who have been affected by FOBTs as well as those who have machines on their premises."

Clause 45 of The Scotland Bill proposes devolving legislative competence in relation to gaming machines authorised by a betting premises licence where the maximum charge for a single play is more than £10. The Gambling Act 2005 would be amended so the Scottish Ministers would be able to vary the number of machines allowed on betting premises. The power will only apply to applications for new premises.