Consultation on Category D gaming machines and licensing for bingo premises

The government is committed to supporting the land-based gambling industry and ensuring that the regulatory framework that underpins it is fit for purpose. We are consulting on proposals to make changes to stakes and prizes for Category D machines and to update the licensing framework for the bingo sector. The proposals that we are consulting on are outlined below.

The government is keen to take stock of the effects of recent commercial pressures and explore ways in which sustainable growth might be supported in the family entertainment centre sector. We are therefore consulting on adjustments to stakes and prizes for Category D gaming machines, which are a staple of the family arcade environment. We are consulting on changes to stakes and prizes for crane grabs, coin pushers, and non-money prize machines, and on creating a new category of ‘slot-style’ non-money prize machines. 

We are also seeking views on the proposal to make it an offence to invite, cause or permit anyone under 18 to use ‘cash out’ slot-style Category D machines, as set out in the previous government’s response to its consultation on measures relating to the land-based sector. Category D slot style machines that offer a monetary prize are currently able to be played by children. These machines share similarities with higher stake, adult-only gaming machines. Members of Bacta (arcades trade association) implemented a voluntary agreement in 2021 to ban under 18s using these machines. We are proposing to move this voluntary agreement into legislation to cover the minority of FECs not already complying with Bacta’s age restriction agreement.

There is a growing number of licensed bingo premises which predominantly site gaming machines and are difficult to distinguish from adult gaming centres. The government is seeking views on measures to create a clearer distinction between AGCs and bingo premises and ensure land-based gambling premises have a licence type that is appropriate to their offering. The key proposal we are seeking views on is establishment of a ‘bingo area’, occupying a minimum proportion of venue floor space, in all licensed bingo venues. We are also consulting on rules that could apply to this area, including prohibiting cabinet and in-fill style gaming machines and requiring a minimum number of positions for bingo in the bingo area.