Budget raises slot machine duty but bingo‑licence loophole may keep discounts for adult gaming centres
The Guardian reported that hundreds of adult gaming centres in England hold bingo licences that still qualify them for discounted business rates.
The Guardian reported that hundreds of adult gaming centres in England hold bingo licences that still qualify them for discounted business rates. The discount could remain in place unless the government closes a loophole that lets the venues operate as bingo halls while running slot machines.
Finance minister John Healey highlighted adult gaming centres in his first budget this week, increasing duty on slot machine takings from 20% to 25%. Healey said the move was "raising taxes on gambling to support good growth on every high street".
If the loophole is not addressed, the centres may continue to benefit from lower rates despite the higher duty, potentially undermining the budget’s aim to fund high‑street regeneration through gambling taxes.
Why it matters
The issue determines whether higher gambling duties will translate into additional revenue for high‑street investment, or if discounts will offset the intended fiscal impact.
Key details
- Location
- United Kingdom · Europe
- Reported by
- The Guardian
- First reported
- Key names
- England, Hundreds, John Healey
- Section
- Business
Sources
This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:
Read the full story at The GuardianSpotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced
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