Online slots in the UK will now be restricted to a maximum of £5 per stake as part of new government regulations. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

The UK will impose limits on how much can be wagered on each spin of online slots as part of a host of new gambling regulations.

The new rules, several of which were reported in the press yesterday, also require gambling operators to contribute 1% of gross gaming revenue (GGR) per year towards addiction treatment and research.

The stake limits on online slots will be tiered by age, with under-25-year-olds limited to £2 ($2.53) per spin and over-25-year-olds limited to £5 ($6.31).

Elsewhere, the government also confirmed that 50% of all funding received from the 1% GGR levy will be directed to the NHS, which represents a shift away from the GambleAware charity, which receives most donations from operators under the current voluntary system.

we are absolutely committed to implementing strengthened measures for those at risk”

Speaking about the new legislation, UK Gambling Minister Baroness said: “Gambling harm can ruin people’s finances, relationships, and ultimately lives. We are absolutely committed to implementing strengthened measures for those at risk, as well as providing effective support for those affected.

“The introduction of the first legally mandated levy will be instrumental in supporting research, raising awareness and reducing the stigma around gambling-related harm. We are also helping to protect those at risk, with a particular focus on young adults, by introducing stake limits for online slots.”