UK Gambling Reform Allows Fruit Machine Prizes to Double

LONDON, UK - As reported by telegraph.co.uk: "The maximum payout will be raised from £35 to £70 while punters will be able to stake £1 rather than 50p, under a relaxation of
Pub Fruity comes complete with stops and nudges.  the rules proposed by Andy Burnham.

The Culture Secretary has agreed to the increases because "many operators across the gambling industry are finding trading conditions very difficult in the present economic climate", according to a consultation document.

The department was being pressured to increase the maximum prize to £100 by amusement arcade operators, however officials concluded that this "could lead to increased problem gambling risks..."

"The change will be put before Parliament in the next few weeks and should come into force in time for the Easter holiday in mid-April.

The news is an apparent reversal of Prime Minister Gordon Brown's tough stance on gambling. Shortly after he became prime minister 18 months ago, Mr Brown axed plans for super casinos with unlimited jackpots..."

"Some observers warned a move to relax gambling laws as Britain enters a recession would encourage addiction.

Dr Emanuel Moran, a specialist adviser on pathological gambling at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: "Fruit machines are one of the most addictive forms of gambling, so this decision is deeply worrying..."

"A spokesman for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport said: "These measures will help seaside arcades, family entertainment centres and pubs, as well as manufacturers while ensuring that the licensing objectives of the Gambling Act, such as the protection of children and vulnerable people, are not put at risk..."