Government’s gamble

The government has looked at the problem of fixed odds betting terminals with one eye open and tried to come up with a quick and easy fix.

Again, it will be the minority who will spoil it for the majority who can control their gambling habits.

I was in a betting shop and was astonished to see a man go to the counter and, with the aid of his debit card, withdraw £1,000 so he could use a betting machine. minutes later he did the same thing. This was repeated twice more within 20 minutes. Four grand down, he kicked the machine, swore and stormed out.

There is a daily limit on withdrawals from cashpoint machines on the high Street, but it would appear you can bleed your bank account dry using a machine in the bookies.

GARY LLOYD, Harlow, Essex. I ENJOY a flutter when watching horse racing on Tv and I have to admit I usually re-bet any online winnings until it’s all lost.

however, recently I decided to cash in £50 of winnings. But the betting firm informed me it could allow only withdrawals up to £30 due to money laundering legislation.

I see why online bookmakers are keen to get new clients with offers such as bet £10 and get £40 worth of free bets. once you’re a customer, it seems your money is theirs to keep.

JOHN BROOKES, address supplied.