Sunday, December 10, 2006

Officials from the Gambling Commission with police officers, customs
officials and Burnley Borough Council officers raided seven businesses
across the borough last week after tip-offs that machines were being
supplied and operated illegally. The machines had no permits and many had
jackpots of £25, but current laws dictate that these machines can only be
situated in pubs, amusement arcades and clubs that hold valid permits.
Gambling Commission inspector Pippa Coombes said: "We are determined to
crack down on the suppliers and operators of these illegal machines and are
grateful to Pennine Police and Burnley Borough Council for their support.
"The illegal supply of gaming machines is a key concern to the Gambling
Commission, the police, and local authorities nationally. Multi-agency
operations like the one in Burnley are proving to be crucial in targeting
uncertified suppliers of illegal gaming machines." The new Gambling Act
comes into force next year and gives new powers to the Gambling Commission
to fine operators and to prosecute illegal gambling. She continued: "This
operation took place under the existing laws, but it demonstrates the vigour
with which we will use our powers in future. "The protection of children and
vulnerable people is a major concern for the commission. Illegal gaming
machines are often situated in premises such as chip shops and takeaways
which are frequented by children. "Additionally, these machines are
unlicensed and unregulated and may have had their mechanisms tampered with
and this puts the public at risk of being ripped off." Coun. Charlie Bullas,
the council's Executive member for community safety, said: "This enforcement
action was necessary in order to halt the spread of illegally sited gaming
machines in the borough and to fully support the principles of the new
legislation."