The stakes and prizes on casino slot machines in the UK have been increased from £2 and £4,000 to £5 and £10,000.
This increase came in today’s triennial review of gaming machine stake and prize limits from the UK government. Prizes of £7,000, £10,000 and £15,000 had been considered but most parties consulted preferred the middle option. There is also an option for casinos to offer a linked progressive jackpot prize up to a maximum of £20,000.
“The government recognises that access to higher stake and prize gaming machines can support socially responsible growth in the casino sector,” said the report. “We welcome the industry’s commitment to explore and ultimately deliver enhanced player protection measures which will help build public confidence in the casino sector and its commitment to minimising the harm caused by its products.
“The government notes the foundations being laid by National Casino Industry Forum and its members in this regard through the development of the Playing Safe code. We also note the recent launch of the industry-led ‘P3’initiative which represents cross-industry efforts to explore harm minimisation and includes some of the UK’s largest casino operators among its members.
“It will, however, be important to see these proposals move from aspiration to reality, driving operational change in businesses. We would also reiterate the importance of the industry starting to gather proper data now to inform consideration of impacts at any future triennial review.
“The government also notes the advice of the RGSB and Gambling Commission which supports the government’s view that there is scope to increase stake and prize limits on B1 machines, provided the potential risk is mitigated through the development, trialling and evaluation of improved harm mitigation measures.”
