Hopes soared [Thursday] that a controversial gambling crackdown will be scrapped as the backlash grew to more than 100,000 punters. A petition against proposed affordability checks on betting galloped into six-figures last night – meaning MPs will have to debate the issue in Parliament.

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The milestone came after Ministers announced plans to sweep the bank details on anyone who loses £125 in a month period or £500 in a year.

People living in poorer areas are more likely to have their accounts flagged under harsher monitoring of less well-off places.

The government insists the affordability checks will be “frictionless” – so punters will not know – and are vital to stop the spiral of problem gambling.