BGC hails UK government U-turn on business rates relief for betting shops
Chancellor confirms casinos and bookies now included on list of eligible businesses after trade body’s lobbying efforts
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has welcomed the UK government’s decision to include betting shops and casinos as businesses qualifying for business rates relief during the Covid-19 pandemic.
BGC CEO Michael Dugher paid tribute to the “unprecedented response” made by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, adding the move would protect more than 64,000 UK jobs in the betting and casino industries.
“On top of the help on employment, extending help on business rates to all businesses that have had to shut down is another much-needed shot in the arm that will help to protect tens of thousands of jobs,” Dugher said.
Dugher singled out Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston as well as several cross-party MPs for their support for the industry during the coronavirus lockdown.
We are extending the #businessrates holiday to those in the A2 category – including estate agents, professional services and bookies, to help protect the thousands of people working in these industries. pic.twitter.com/2f4rNh8dVu
— Nigel Huddleston MP (@HuddlestonNigel) March 25, 2020
Betting shops and casinos had initially been excluded from receiving business rates relief, however both types of gambling business will now be included within the leisure, hospitality and retail sectors, making them eligible.
The BGC had previously written to the chancellor accusing him of abandoning the UK gambling industry with the decision not to include gambling firms, claiming it would be “hugely damaging” for the sector.
“Our industry will in turn do its absolute utmost to help with the fight against the virus and play our part in this historic national effort, including offering up staff and premises to help.
“And although gambling has fallen markedly with betting shops and casinos closing, and with the lack of sport which accounts for a big chunk of online betting too, we are also stepping up our safer gambling measures at this time,” Dugher added.
Measures the industry will now be eligible for include payment of 80% of staff wages up to a cap of £2,500 which is backdated to 1 March and will be open for three months.
Operator VAT payments will now also be deferred, having been due for payment within the next quarter. Gambling firms will now be able to apply for the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, which is interest-free for 12 months.