Tory leader David Cameron has announced his plans to put forward a proposal to raise the gambling age limit to 18. The issue was discussed during the preparation of a Conservative report, which stated that this measure was the most important step to take in order to fight gambling addictions.

The report from the Tory policy commission on social justice also states that it is necessary to limit the number and size of casinos in the United Kingdom, a measure that will also be pushed forward by Cameron. Finally, the report calls for more attention to gambling in the new media, like the Internet, cell phones and interactive television.

The analysis made by the commission concluded that 3.5 percent of all youngsters between 11 and 15, that is approximately 100,000 children, have gambling problems and are at a serious risk of becoming addicts. The analysis was made by a gambling expert hired by Mr. Cameron.

Currently, Britain is the only country in the world where children of any age are allowed to play slot machines as long as the jackpot does not exceed £5. Besides, 16-year-olds can buy lottery tickets and scratch cards and bet on football games.