Though unconfirmed, it appears that the government will shelve plans to modernise the rules and offerings of Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) on UK high streets.
DCMS has stalled plans to reconsider the relaxation of rules around B3 Gaming Machines allowed in AGC and Bingo venues as a recommendation of the Gambling Review’s White Paper consultation phase.
This morning, The Guardian reported on a letter confirming that “DCMS officials will not be introducing changes to the 80/20 rule this year”.
The 80/20 rule refers to ratio of gaming machines (category C, D and B) allowed in AGCs and bingo halls, a command that has been applied since 2011, implemented by reforms to the Gambling Act of 2005.
At present, AGCs and bingo halls can maintain no more than 20% of premise floor space for B3 gaming machines, which allow customers to stake a maximum of £2 with a maximum prize of £5..