11. What steps she is taking in response to requests from local government for powers to prevent the clustering of betting shops and fixed odds betting terminals. (902294)

The Government are working with local authorities on how to make best use of existing planning and licensing powers in regard to betting shops.

Does the Minister agree that the clustering of betting shops and FOBTs in high streets in cities such as Hull is having a detrimental effect, and will she now support the Opposition’s call to give local authorities more power to control the number opening?

Local authorities already have powers, such as article 4 directions and licensing conditions. The hon. Gentleman is complaining about the number of betting shops and FOBTs on high streets, but it was his party’s Gambling Act 2005 and his party’s liberalisation and relaxing of the rules that got us into this position in the first place.

Does my hon. Friend agree that it is only demand from customers that determines the number of betting shops in an area?

My hon. Friend makes a fair point. Gambling is still a legal activity enjoyed very safely by many around the country.