Bacta Urges Industry Response to Gambling Commission's Review of Technical Standards

The Gambling Commission has launched a significant review of the Gaming Machine Technical Standards (GMTS), which may bring about changes with far-reaching consequences for the industry.

Bacta has been working closely with the Bingo Association to submit a range of improvements to GMTS. These suggestions were put forward earlier this year in response to the Commission’s initial indication that a review was forthcoming.

Last month, Bacta participated in a pre-consultation exercise, during which the Gambling Commission shared its preliminary thoughts on the updates. Among the proposals being considered are:

·      New rules on limit setting for all Category B machines (B3, B3A, B4).

·      Introduction of net position and elapsed time display meters on Category B machines.

·      Enhanced safer gambling messaging on Category B machines.

·      New rules around awards below stake size and prohibiting player-led spin-stop features for Category B machines, with a consultation on whether Category C machines should be included.

The Commission’s proposed changes would primarily impact Category B machines, with some potential impact on Category C machines. The most significant aspect of the proposal is the requirement for machines to undergo software updates in order to meet these new technical standards. Without these updates, machines may no longer be legal to operate.

The timeline proposed by the Commission would require that all new games incorporate these changes within six months of implementation, while existing games would have up to 18 months to comply.

Bacta’s Concerns

John Bollom, President of Bacta, expressed deep concern about the potential effects on businesses across the industry. "The Gambling Commission’s proposals could make many machines redundant. A large number of machines are simply incapable of receiving the software updates necessary to deliver the proposed changes to GMTS. This would have devastating implications for many of our members' businesses, and we will fight these proposals all the way," said Bollom.

Bacta is currently preparing a submission in response to the proposals, with the submission deadline set for September 30, 2024.

Next Steps

While these proposals are part of a pre-consultation exercise and are not yet final, there is the potential for significant industry disruption if they proceed in their current form. Should the Commission move forward, there will be a further formal consultation period, during which trade associations and industry stakeholders will have the opportunity to submit additional responses.

The Gambling Commission has also indicated that, if implemented, there would likely be a 13-month gap between the publication of any formal proposals and their enforcement.

Bacta will continue to work closely with its members and partners to ensure that the industry’s voice is heard throughout this process.

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23 September 2024

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