Pubs need government support amid betting stake cut, says UKHospitality

Trade association UKHospitality has called on the government to offer pubs support as it announced it was cutting the maximum stake for fixed-odds betting from £100 to £2 in a bid to tackle gambling addiction.

Saying that Category C and D gaming machines were a “vital revenue stream for many pubs”, the body said it would continue to liaise with the government to “ensure that pubs have the support and opportunities they need to make the most from them”.

Its statement said: “The government’s approach to Category C and D machines suggests that it is prepared to act pragmatically, and to entertain the notion of an increase in stakes and prizes if the sector can demonstrate that it has implemented measures that will manage the risk of gambling-related harm effectively.

“Despite there being no evident link between problem gambling and the category C and D machines allowed in pubs, our members are keen to promote socially responsible measures, to show that these machines are used under supervision and with an absolute minimum of harm.”