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Gamblers able to set limits on high stakes machines

Gamblers will be able to set limits on the time and money they spend on machines, according to a code drawn up by the industry watchdog. The Association of British Bookmakers said the code was part of "ongoing efforts to tackle problem gambling".

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Govt: 'More could be done' to help vulnerable gamblers

The Government has praised the gambling industry's new code of conduct but added "more could be done" to protect vulnerable customers.

The new player protection code is a positive step in the right direction from the industry, but we think more could be done.

Problem gambling is a serious issue and we are determined to help tackle it. We want there to be a competitive gambling sector but not at the expense of public protection, and our ongoing review is focused on that.

– Gambling minister Helen Grant

Read: Gambling watchdog: Code gives players 'more control'

Gambling watchdog: Code gives players 'more control'

A new code of conduct for the gambling industry will "give players more control" and "encourage" customers to play responsibly, the industry watchdog said.

The ABB said the code, which comes into effect tomorrow, had the "full support" of the gambling industry.

We want to take steps to protect them because one problem gambler is one too many.

That is why we have put together the code, which introduces revolutionary new harm minimisation measures, the likes of which have yet to be seen anywhere in the world.

The industry has come together as one to promote responsible gambling. It is united in a fierce commitment to help vulnerable people....

We believe the measures strike the right balance between protecting customers without stopping the enjoyment of the eight million people who play on gaming machines without any problems.

– ABB chief executive Dirk Vennix

Read: Gamblers will be able to set time limits under new code

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Gamblers will be able to set time limits under new code

Gamblers using controversial gaming machines will be able to set limits on the amount of time and money they spend, under a new code of conduct launched by the industry watchdog.

Read: Miliband: Time to 'pull the plug' on betting terminals

The harm minimisation measures included in the code were "revolutionary", the ABB said. Credit: PA

The code will also introduce mandatory alerts when customers have spent £250 or played for 30 minutes, the Association of British Bookmakers (ABB) announced.

Betting shop staff will be training to spot problem gamblers and offer advice and support.

The ABB said the code was part of their "ongoing efforts to tackle problem gambling" and claimed the UK was the first country to allow customers to set their own limits on gaming machines.

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