UK Government extends online slot stake limit consultation deadline due to data error

The UK government has announced an extension to the deadline for its consultation on stake limits for online slots due to an error in data provided in official documentation.

The government initially reported a problem gambling rate of 1.5 percent for 16 to 24-year-olds, but it has come to light that this figure pertains exclusively to men. The correct percentage of problem gambling within this age group as a whole stands at 0.8 percent. Consequently, the government has decided to postpone the deadline for submissions to the consultation by two weeks, now set for October 4.

This development has raised questions about whether the government and the UK Gambling Commission will be able to complete all of the consultations outlined in the government's gambling white paper before the upcoming general election, which is scheduled to occur before January 28.

The Gambling White Paper consultations, which began in July, look at a number of issues, including how to conduct financial risk checks for problem gambling and at what level stake limits should be set for people playing online slot games. Outdated rules that “restrict casinos and bingo halls” will also be looked at as part of the process.

The focus of the consultation in question revolves around proposals to implement a maximum stake limit for spins on online slots. Currently, a £2 limit is in place for land-based fixed-odds betting terminals. The proposal for online slots suggests a limit ranging from £2 to £15. The white paper justifies this measure by highlighting the heightened risk associated with online slots, which are often linked to substantial losses and extended gaming sessions.

This month, the Gambling Commission announced the establishment of an Industry Forum, to be made up of representatives belonging to Britain's gambling industry. The role of the group will be to provide the Commission with further insight into the views of operators.