Revised proposals are a lifeline to an industry in troubled waters
London, 22nd December 2008 – BACTA, the British Amusement and Catering Trade Association, which represents the UK pay-to-play leisure sector has today applauded the Government’s revised proposals for Category C and D machines released by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport.
Gambling Minister Gerry Sutcliffe’s second consultation document sets out the Government’s revised proposals in respect of what new stake and prize limits of Category C and D machines should apply until 2012. The Government has invited views on the plans during the four week consultation period which starts today.
BACTA welcomes plans to increase the maximum stake limit for Category C machines to £1 and the maximum prize limit to £70 (from 50p and £35 currently) as a lifeline to aid the plight of struggling British arcades – especially in seaside resorts.
Nick Harding, President of BACTA, said: “The British seaside industry represents thousands of jobs in the UK and it has already suffered a 21% drop in revenue in the past 12 months. It is a sector that has been hit particularly hard with up to 170 arcade closures since September 2007 resulting in 853 jobs lost.
“We are delighted the Government is listening to the industry and taking steps to stem the decline of the seaside, secure jobs and prevent more businesses going to the wall.
Leslie Macleod-Miller, Chief Executive of BACTA, added: “It is critically important, however, that we have clarity on the levels of stakes and prizes before the start of the Amusement Trades Exhibition International show on January 27th as the revised proposals will impact trade – hopefully in a positive way.”
For further information please contact:
Leslie Macleod Miller, Chief Executive, BACTA +44 7979 906172
Nick Harding, President, BACTA, +44 7970 148000
Media - Hill & Knowlton - 0207 413 3171 or
Tim Luckett: 0207 973 4443
Jessica Rudd: 0207 973 5934
Nicola Hawes: 0207 973 5912
BACTA - 020 7726 9826
