Key Moments:
- The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has started a consultation on Category D gaming machines and bingo premises licensing.
- The consultation proposes either maintaining or removing the licence exemption for Category D machines.
- Stakeholders can submit responses until 4 December 2025.
Consultation Overview
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has initiated a consultation designed to gather input on regulations governing Category D gaming machines and the licensing approach for bingo premises. This forms part of a broader initiative to update gambling laws to reflect current technological and market conditions.
Category D Machines Under Review
Category D gaming machines, which include coin pushers, crane grabbers, and low-stake fruit machines, represent the lowest-stake gambling options in the UK. These devices are typically available in arcades, family entertainment centers, and certain pubs. Presently, many locations can offer these machines without a permit or licence, a policy originally aimed at encouraging low-risk entertainment. However, the government is now assessing whether this provision remains adequate, especially amid concerns about access by minors and changes in the gambling landscape.
The consultation outlines two possible paths forward: retaining the existing exemption for Category D machines or revoking it, which would require all operators to secure a relevant permit or licence. Authorities specifically want to ascertain whether the exemption continues to achieve its intended objectives and if it results in regulatory inconsistencies.
🚨 The Govt is consulting on gaming machines & licensing for bingo premises.
A chance to address serious issues, like setting fair limits or the early exposure of young people to gambling harms.
End goal: scrap “Aim to Permit”. Make your voice heard ⬇️https://t.co/t1J76SBKFz
— Dawn Butler ✊🏾💙 (@DawnButlerBrent) October 16, 2025
Bingo Licensing Framework Examined
The second subject of the consultation centers on the rules covering bingo premises. Current legislation requires operators to obtain a premises licence for bingo activities, but the definition of “bingo” has evolved, raising questions around the clarity and proportionality of existing licensing systems—especially for low-stakes games and community events. The government is evaluating whether these requirements may be unduly burdensome for small businesses or community organizations.
Participation and Next Steps
Stakeholders—such as businesses, local authorities, and the general public—are encouraged to submit feedback to the consultation, which closes on 4 December 2025. Contributions should address the effect of the current regulations, potential impacts of any proposed changes, and opinions on achieving an appropriate balance between consumer protection and regulatory proportionality.
Ongoing Reform Efforts
This initiative follows a range of previously announced measures, such as proposed enhancements for online gambling safety, updates to land-based gaming regulations, and improved oversight for gambling promotions, all stemming from the government’s Gambling White Paper.
The DCMS has stated: “Any changes resulting from the consultation will be carefully considered to ensure they are evidence-based and proportionate, with a continued focus on protecting children and vulnerable people from gambling-related harm.”
| Area of Focus | Current Policy | Potential Change | Consultation Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category D Gaming Machines | Exemption from license/permit in many settings | Possible removal of exemption, requiring licenses/permits for all operators | 4 December 2025 |
| Bingo Premises Licensing | Licence required, even for low-stakes/community bingo | Potential adjustments for clarity and proportionality | 4 December 2025 |
- Author
Daniel Williams
