The Aussie Poker Guide

UK Mulling Over Allowing Poker Wagering In Pubs

The British government is studying a move that would permit small stake gambling on poker games taking place in pubs beginning next autumn.

The popularity of the game of poker has been unprecedented in recent years, making it a part of the mainstream. Its allure is expected to be further escalated from the release of the newest installation in the 007 film series, Casino Royale, as James Bond faces his nemesis in the poker room in the finale.

According to the UK government's proposal, the pubs' patrons can only have a maximum loss of GBP10 in an evening, thus keeping the game social.

Meanwhile many pubs, in anticipation of this leniency, have already signed up to a number of national pub poker leagues. As host establishments, they are not allowed to be involved financially in the game. But many report that during poker nights, the sales are considerably higher than regular nights.

The Department of Culture Media and Sport will be issuing a consultation paper on the subject of regulating the level of stakes and prizes that will be allowed in these pub poker events. Ministers also say that they will make sure that the poker play will not become the central attraction in public houses.