Legislation

UK – Bacta respond to DCMS consultation on machine allowances highlighting benefits of 3 to 1 option

By Phil - 19 February 2024

Bacta has drawn on the experience and expert insight provided by its Gaming Council to help formulate the trade association’s response to the DCMS Supplementary Consultation on machine allowances for arcades and bingo halls.

The bacta submission, which was made last week, highlighted the proposed maximum of up to three B3 machines for every one Cat C/D as delivering the optimum mix of products in order for the industry to be competitive at the same time as retaining its low stake, low prize gambling entertainment credentials.

Bacta National President John Bollom welcomed the additional options presented by DCMS as well as the input made by bacta’s Gaming Council. He stated: “In terms of the detail I should stress that this represents a maximum figure: if operators wanted fewer B3s they of course retain that option.  

“Overall the publication of the supplementary consultation on machine numbers must be considered 

as a positive step. In particular we welcome the conclusion that action should be taken to support the AGC sector which is still experiencing significant commercial challenges following Covid and the spike in energy and other costs.

“We endorse the conclusion that liberalisation is required in order to support recovery, to ensure that regulation is fit for the future and that operators have the freedom to meet customer needs and in the process stimulate innovation, investment and growth.”

He added: “I also welcome the contributions made by bacta’s Gaming Council. When we embarked on the restructure process and presented the proposals for a streamlined bacta to members an important part of the rationale for change was to create a more agile and dynamic organisation capable of responding to scenarios such as this. The expert insight provided by the Gaming Council led by Peter Davies enabled us to provide DCMS with the detail and the analysis required to inform progressive regulation. Having the ability to respond swiftly and with authority represents a major positive and will underpin our engagement with government and our regulators.”