BACKING BINGO - 30th Jun, 2009

The "Backing Bingo" campaign is in response to an announcement that tax duty on licensed bingo will be increased from 15% to 20%

I have receivied requests from constituents asking or me to support the ‘I’m Backing Bingo’ campaign. The campaign is in response to the recent Budget Statement in which it was announced that duty for licensed bingo would be increased from 15% to 22%.
It has been suggested that the consequence of this announcement will have an effect on both local employment an economies and even impact on the social structure of our communities.
In response to these concerns, I have written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and asked to meet with him to discuss this matter further.

I have also supported an Early Day Motion, urging the Government to apply a fairer levy of taxation on bingo. I am aware that many bingo clubs play a central role in the community and feel that we need to review the tax to ensure their continued survival.



I thank all those constituents who brought this matter to my attention and can assure you that all those that have taken the time to contact me will receive updates as soon as they become available.