British regulator announces new rules for removal of non-compliant gaming machines

New rules coming into effect from July aim to streamline processes for the removal non-compliant machines from gaming venues.

UK.- The Gambling Commission has announced the introduction of new rules to ensure non-compliant gaming machines are removed from premises quickly and effectively. The move forms part of the regulator’s response to its third consultation to implement proposals from the 2023 Gambling Act Review White Paper, High stakes: gambling reform for the digital age.

Currently, non-remote operators must already adhere to the Gambling Act 2005 and ensure machines available for consumer use are compliant. If machines are found to be not fit-for-purpose, operators need to take immediate action and make sure issues are dealt with in time for a second on-site inspection.

However, the new rule states that from July 29 2026, operators must immediately remove machines if the regulator informs them that the manufacture, supply, installation, adaption, maintenance or repair of the machine was not carried out in reliance on a gaming machine technical operating licence, or did not comply with other standards.

The consultation had found majority support for the new rule, which follows the move last July to allow licensed casinos to adopt a 80/20 machine ratio subject to floor space and venue size requirements. The reform has not yet been extended to high-street arcades and bingo halls due to concerns about higher-risk gaming machines in urban centres.

The Gambling Commission said the new rule is aimed at streamlining processes and ensuring non-compliant machines are swiftly removed from premises. It added that its remaining consultation responses will be published in the summer after has concluded consideration of responses and supplementary data, research and evidence reports submitted by stakeholders.