Bacta and the Bingo Association are completing the final draft of their proposal to update the existing technical standards prior to the six point document and rationale being submitted to the Gambling Commission ahead of the agreed 30 April deadline.

The latest meeting of the joint Bacta/Bingo Association Technical Standards Group which is chaired by Blueprint Operation’s Alan Claypole took place on 16th April.

Speaking after the meeting Bacta National Council member Tony Boulton said: “The Gambling Commission should be congratulated for responding positively to our request to provide an industry perspective on technical standards.

“We’ve worked productively alongside our colleagues from the Bingo Association and the group has been able to draw on the insight provided by a cross-section of machine manufacturers and operators.

“It’s important to note that many of the technical standards that are currently in operation have not been amended for over a decade, a period during which so much has changed.

“Technical standards which are fundamental to all industry stakeholders not least machine players, must evolve in order to adapt to the rapid changes in technology that have taken place and the evolution of an increasingly competitive and blended land-based/online gaming environment.

“Our focus has been to supply a concise action plan covering six key areas whilst upholding the industry’s non-negotiable commitment to safer gambling.

“We recognise that nothing will change imminently and this is part of Bacta’s commitment to look beyond the here and now and plan for the future prosperity of members.”