Poker leaflet helps pubs play their cards right

The Commission has produced the leaflet titled Poker in pubs: advice on allowing poker in alcohol licensed premises​ as part of a campaign to educate the licensed alcohol trade about the law on equal chance gaming.

Low stakes poker is permitted in pubs as long as stakes are kept below £5 a head and £100 per premises per day. A significant number of poker leagues operate legitimate low stakes poker around the country but there is some evidence of restrictions being breached.

The Commission has already written to poker league operators reminding them of the legal position. The leaflet, which has the backing of the BBPA, is designed to help landlords ensure the limits on stakes and prizes are not breached on their premises. It has also been highlighted to the large pub operators.

The new leaflet has also received the support of the Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services (LACORS). Local authorities may take action against holders of alcohol premises licences who breach the limits. Licensees who persist in offering illegal poker risk prosecution under the Gambling Act 2005.

Rita King, Deputy Director of Pub & Leisure at the BBPA said: "This leaflet gives welcome clarification of the law around what has become a popular game in Britain’s pubs.  Poker in pubs is a low-stakes game played largely for fun. When it comes to keeping prizes within the legal limits, it will help pubs to have the rules set out clearly."