Test purchases in Milton Keynes see half of gambling premises fail

A programme of test purchases at ten gambling licensed premises in Milton Keynes found that half were failing in their duty to prevent young people from being involved in under-age gambling.

The test purchases were carried out by Milton Keynes Council and the Gambling Commission, with the assistance of 16-year-old volunteers.

Of the ten premises, which included arcades and betting shops, three allowed the volunteers to place bets. Another two allowed the teenagers to enter and remain inside the premises without being approached and checked for their age or identification.

The council had previously conducted licence inspections of all 37 gambling licensed premises in its area.

Karen Ford, Head of Milton Keynes’ Regulatory Unit, said: “This was a disappointing result for the businesses involved but they have all made a commitment to improve staff training and to implement measures such as self testing and the sharing of good practice. We will continue to monitor these and others to ensure the safety of children and young persons in Milton Keynes.”

Jim Reynolds, Compliance Manager at the Gambling Commission, said: "Licensed gambling operators must have effective policies and procedures in place to prevent under age gambling."