Dangerous game

SIR – Thank goodness that Lord Chadlington (Letters, September 20) has drawn our attention to the increase in problem gambling.

The wish-washy caveat – “when the fun stops, stop” – that the gambling industry appends to its advertising has all the power that the injunction against selling alcohol to minors and drunks has on unscrupulous shopkeepers.

Is it not the contemptible busybody Tony Blair whom we have to thank for deregulating the gambling industry and relaxing the law on alcohol sales?

The Association of British Bookmakers is squealing about how reducing the maximum stakes on gambling machines will damage their industry. Do they care that they harm addicted punters and their families, or cause addiction in youngsters with online games? They have the morality of the tobacco industry captains. Paul Berry

Umberleigh, Devon