Sir Robin Wales, the Mayor of Newham has accused the Government of “dragging its feet” after it announced a further consultation on Fixed Odd Betting Terminals (FOBTs).

Today the Government announced a 12 week consultation period to consider the maximum stake allowed on the high street betting machines, currently they are set at £100 but they are  suggesting a cut to between £2 – £50.

Newham thinks the latest announcement represents  an “unnecessary delay” which the country cannot afford, The Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport launched its review over a year ago and have had plenty of time to consider the stake reduction to £2.

Newham has one of the highest amount of betting shops in the UK totalling 81 in the borough, including 12 on a singular street an last year in newham alone £20 million was lost on FOBTs.

Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales said:  “£20 million a year lost on these machines  - it is a huge price that some of our poorest and most vulnerable residents are paying because of this Government’s continued inaction.”

Subsequently since 2014 Newham council has led the largest ever nationwide and cross-party submission under the Sustainable Communities Act, calling for the stakes on FOBTs to be reduced to £2, a submission was supported by 92 local authorities who collectively represent 43% of the population.

“The case we and 92 other local authorities have made for a stake reduction of £2 is irrefutable.” added Sir Robin “If the maximum stake level is set at anything over £2, it will show that the Treasury is putting exchequer profits before people.”

Money Advice Service recently released a report that showed Newham residents are the most likely in the UK to be burdened by debt.

Sir Robin said “Our residents cannot afford any further  delay. The Government must act decisively and reduce the maximum stakes on FOBT machines to £2. Only a stake reduction of £2 will provide protection for our residents and promote responsible gambling.”

It is clear that Newham means business and will not take this issue lightly, these betting shops are bringing little value to the community and are adding to antisocial behaviour problems in already deprived areas, and as they can not be eradicated they can be regulated more strictly.