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Britain Raises Betting and Jackpot Limits to Encourage Gambling
LONDON, ENGLAND --
The British government has decided to double the maximum wager and winning paid by slot machines. Culture Secretary Andy Burnham approved a deal designed to create a twenty percent boost in revenue.
Jackpot limits will rise to a little over a hundred dollars, while the largest bet permitted also doubles, to about a dollar and a half. Over $40 million in taxes is expected to result from the jumps.
Officials had debated smaller increases, but were told by lobbyists that neither the casino industry nor the government would benefit enough without doubling the ceilings.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown was excoriated by religious and anti-gambling factions for allowing the changes. This is ironic, as Brown has consistently fought to prevent gambling's spread, even including reducing his predecessor's plans for expanding casino gambling.
If Brown, the man who vetoed the Manchester supercasino project, thinks more gambling is necessary, others had best stop their knee-jerk criticisms and consider the possibility that the reward outweighs the costs.
The gambling Commission said no increase in problem gambling would be expected, as long as proper controls were continued. A commission spokesman said, "The protection of children and vulnerable people is at the heart of the Gambling Act and this remains our priority."
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