Fixed-odds betting

SIR – You report (March 20) that the Gambling Commission has recommended a maximum stake for fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTS) of £30. The decision-makers behind this recommendation have been misinformed by statistical modelling and financial considerations that amplify the theoretical against the painful reality of FOBT addiction.

A reduction to a £2 stake, which is what many campaigners sought, is not an economic choice; it is a moral obligation grounded in public safety. This is an exercise in minimising one source of harm. I agree with the commission that problem gamblers are likely to partake in a range of activities, and that the net effect on the total risk of harm is unclear. But to use that as reason enough to allow one such strong source of harm to continue is astounding.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport must consider the commission’s advice: but it must also consider the thousands of other voices – including victims, industry stakeholders, MPS, think tanks, faith groups and the public – who have united under this banner of a £2 stake and make the moral, reasoned choice. John White

CEO, Bacta (British Amusement Catering Trade Association) London EC1