As expected the UK government relaxed the rules on gaming machines at bingo venues yesterday. The change to the existing law that limits operators to four £500 jackpot slot machines will need final approval by Parliament but it is not anticipated that the measure will meet opposition. The government hopes that the relaxation of the rules will help to stem the number of bingo clubs closing since the Gambling Act 2005 and slowing economy started to eat into company profits.

It is proposed that the number of jackpot machines allowed in bingo clubs be doubled to eight. Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said in the House of Commons, "Bingo clubs play a crucial role in many communities and we want to see that continue. For some people, especially older and retired women, bingo is their main leisure pursuit. It is therefore of great concern that nearly 100 bingo clubs have closed in the last four years." The government will launch a consultation on the plan but it is hoped that the new rule to allow extra jackpot machines will be implemented before the end of the year.

The Bingo Association has said it warmly welcomes the Government’s proposal to amend the rules on the number of B3 machines permitted in UK licensed bingo clubs. In a statement issued after the government announcement was made the Association said, “This much needed revision to the Gambling Act will address the loss of machines that bingo clubs suffered when it was implemented in September 2007 and restores bingo clubs` machine entitlement to levels operating prior to the Act taking effect.”

Speaking on behalf of The Bingo Association, Chief Executive Paul Talboys said: `Today’s announcement marks the end of a long and frustrating wait, but the Minister has been supportive and sympathetic to the industry’s situation throughout, and we are grateful for the fact that he has clearly listened to the case we put forward. He has recognised the valuable role bingo clubs play and taken steps to help secure their future. We believe today’s announcement will go some way to addressing the adverse position bingo operates under and will help ensure that bingo remains part of the social and leisure landscape in the UK.”
(E-06.26.08)

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