UK prime minister Theresa May has been accused of beating up high street bookies while ignoring similar problems associated with the National Lottery.
Former shadow culture secretary Michael Dugher said it was unfair for the government to concentrate its criticisms on fixed odds betting terminals (FOBTs) while the same issues exist with regard to scratch cards and slot machines.
He pointed out that hundreds of betting shops will be in danger of having to close down if any more red tape is placed upon the industry.
This follows the government’s call for evidence to review the state of the gambling industry last October. Culture minister Tracy Crouch announced the review of FOBTs, saying they may be causing harm to the vulnerable.
