Cabinet are set to decide whether the games, familiar in pubs and clubs, will be allowed to remain on the Island.

If they are ruled to be legal, which owners believe they are, then the PLP may impose taxes on the operators.

Home Affairs Minister Paula Cox said a final decision on the machines would be made soon but she would not reveal what her recommendation to Ministers would be.

She was speaking after UBP MP Gary Pitman called on Government to take some action over the issue. He believes the machines are as addictive as drugs, costing people thousands of dollars. The Shadow Environment Minister challenged the PLP to either outlaw them or raise a tax on each device.

But lawyer Julian Hall, working for operators, previously argued they were not illegal and had been imported into the country, paying Customs duties, after legal consultations.

Police have been asked to investigate the workings of the machines and the Attorney General's Chambers are also looking into the situation.

Miss Cox said she was awaiting reports that would ultimately shape the final form of the recommendations.

GOVERNMENT GVT