New UK Slot Limits Face Scrutiny from Paddy Power Co-Founder
Stewart Kenny, co-founder of Paddy Power and former board member at Flutter Entertainment, has raised concerns about the UK government’s upcoming stake limits on online slots. While he acknowledges the move as a step forward, he argues the measures fall short of addressing core issues driving gambling-related harm.
Criticism of Stake Cap Measures
Under the new UK regulations, a £5 per spin limit will apply to players aged 25 and older starting in April 2025. Those between 18 and 24 will face a stricter £2 cap from May. These rules stem from the review of the 2005 Gambling Act, aimed at responding to the risks posed by the growth of online gambling.
Despite the intent behind these measures, Kenny remains skeptical. He stated that stake restrictions are “a positive development” but insufficient on their own. He pointed to the speed of play and immersive design of online slots as greater threats, saying the rapid cycle of betting and reward reinforces compulsive behavior.
The Role of Game Design in Addiction
Kenny highlighted several features of online slots that he believes encourage excessive play. “The gap between investment and results is only seconds, which means punters can repeat the dose at high speed,” he said. He added that near-miss visuals and engaging graphics can intensify the urge to keep playing, particularly for vulnerable users.
He also criticized how operators use promotional offers—like free spins—to convert sports bettors into slot players. These techniques, he warned, blur the lines between entertainment and exploitation.
Industry and Regulator Responsibilities
Although Kenny sees gambling as a personal choice, he believes regulators need to take a more proactive role in limiting harm. “There’s a balance here. If you want to bet, you should be allowed to bet. It’s a free society. So you don’t want to interfere with people’s entertainment too much,” he said. However, he also emphasized that it’s not enough to place the burden solely on operators.
“It’s so easy to blame the betting companies. This is a matter for legislators,” he added, calling for a more comprehensive approach from policymakers.