Burnham's gambling tax plan could cost casinos up to £460 million
A proposal to double taxes on high-stakes slot machines could raise up to £460 million, sparking industry backlash.Summary
A proposal backed by the Social Market Foundation (SMF) suggests doubling the Machine Games Duty (MGD) on high-stakes Category B gaming machines from 20% to 40%. This change could generate between £275 million and £458 million in additional tax revenue, alongside the sector's existing £600 million contribution. The proposal targets adult gaming centres (AGCs), often called 'slot sheds', which critics argue are concentrated in vulnerable communities. Andy Burnham has previously accused these venues of targeting vulnerable people and supported stronger council powers to restrict them. The SMF polling found 43% support for a future Labour government increasing taxes on AGCs. The gambling industry strongly opposes the plan, with Bacta calling it 'fantasy economics and grossly irresponsible', warning it could force businesses to close and push customers toward unregulated operators. Investors reacted negatively, with shares in Entain and Rank Group falling around 2% after reports of the proposal. The plan is not government policy, but it adds to political pressure on the industry amid concerns over AGC expansion.
(Source：Asiantimes)