Bingo industry looking for help from government
23rd June, 2008
Many bingo operators in Britain are frustrated with the government’s continued ‘inaction’ with regard to the industry’s current downfall.
Dozens of bingo halls have had to shut down due to the recent struggle, and bingo operators are looking to the government for help. It has also been reported that three clubs have closed in the past two weeks.
“The effects of the issues facing bingo have not lessened in the past six months...making this delay totally unfathomable,” said Talboys, chief executive of the Bingo Association.
Uk’s bingo clubs have seen better days since the smoking ban has decreased traffic to the halls as well as recent legislation that limits e number of £500 jackpot machines – without even mentioning the fact that these businesses are being taxed twice.
Bingo clubs have to pay 15 percent gross profits tax on top of the usual 17.5 percent VAT. Operators are tired of waiting for the government to step in and feel something must be done immediately.
“Decision –makers need to do exactly that: make a decision and stand by it, not continue dithering while bingo burns,” said Jason Batup, manager of Bracknell’s Point Bingo Club. “The industry doesn’t need any more sympathy from the minister and the Prime Minister, it needs action.”
Owners of these clubs are urging the government to remove the VAT on bingo products and are lobbying to do so – otherwise many of these clubs will have to close.
By Michael
