TV roulette attracts criticism

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by Change | 24 Sep 2009

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A new TV program that offers live roulette gambling has been criticised by politicians and campaigners, who say it will lead to a rise in problem gambling and addiction.

Concerns have arisen amid the announcement that Channel Five will broadcast a live interactive roulette show that could see players gamble thousands of pounds.

Politicians and campaigners have reacted to Five's decision to sell airtime to SuperCasino.com after changes in Ofcom regulations by arguing that the program could lead to more Brits falling into gambling addiction.

Players will be able to top up their credit and place bets online before watching the results live on TV.

Shadow culture secretary Jeremy Hunt commented on the new gambling phenomenon: "It risks creating a new generation of problem gamblers and potentially destroying many families."

John Beyer of pressure group Mediawatch UK added that people who cannot afford to go to a real casino could be attracted to the TV gambling experience.

In related news, Scottish children as young as 13 have been seeking gambling addiction advice, a local newspaper reported last week (September 14th).

According to the Paisley Daily Express, one 18-year-old male sought help after racking up a debt of £4,500 through his gambling problem.

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