The U.K. Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) says the Scottish government has reneged on its agreement to lift restrictions imposed on bookmakers. The restrictions, part of the protocols for reopening the shops June 29 after Covid-19 closures, included removal of chairs, and prohibitions on live racing on television and the use of gaming machines.
The government agreed to remove restrictions on July 22, but changed their tune and ordered gaming machines to remain out of order, according to Gambling Insider.
In a letter to BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher, a government official described a desire to “have a consistent approach regarding the use of gaming machines while always keeping people safe.”
Brigid Simmonds, BGC chairwoman, expressed disappointment with a decision that contradicts earlier pronouncements.
“I would urge ministers in Scotland to urgently reconsider this baffling decision and revert to the position they had less than a week ago,” she said.
