Gaming machines in non-gambling premises

Non-gambling premises such as chip shops and taxi offices have been able, under the Gaming Act 1968, to apply for gaming machine permits.

However, the Government has decided to remove machines completely from such premises by 31st July 2009.

Ministers gave effect to this decision when they made an Order under the Gambling Act 2005, laid before Parliament in July 2006 and preventing any further applications for the grant or renewal of such permits after 1st August 2006.

The Order also provides for permits granted or renewed after 31st July 2006, in response to applications made before 1st August 2006, to have effect until 31st July 2009.

Permits granted before 1st August 2006 will have effect until whichever is the earlier of the date on which they are due to expire or 31st July 2009.

It will not be possible to renew permits when they expire