Tell punters to bet big before law change, bookie tells staff
BOOKMAKER William Hill has been accused of trying to milk more cash from users of gambling machines before a new clampdown comes into force.
The maximum bet on the addictive fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) is to be slashed from £100 to £2.
But yesterday it emerged that William Hill has told staff to remind customers they can still bet big because the limits have not yet been changed.
In an email, the bookmaker suggested its revenues from the machines had fallen even before the law takes effect.
In the email, William Hill said: ‘Following last week’s update from the Government regarding their intention to reduce staking limits…we have had a softening in our gaming machine performance and I am concerned this is because many may believe the limits are already in place.
‘Therefore, please be aware there is no change to the current maximum stake of £100 and if appropriate ensure that your customers are aware of this fact so they can continue to enjoy playing gaming machines as they do currently.’
The email sparked fury among campaigners.
Matt Zarb-Cousin, of the Campaign for Fairer Gambling, said: ‘If the bookies had any sense of social responsibility, they’d cut the stake to £2 now, but instead they’re encouraging their staff to milk the FOBT cash-cow as much as they can off the backs of the vulnerable.’