BGC Chiefs Warn of Risks from Potential UK Gambling Tax Rise
Chief Executive Hurst and Tax Policy Advisor Hodgson have been at the forefront of efforts to oppose what has become a widely expected move, publishing several reports and public statements outlining their position.
The Betting and Gaming Council’s (BGC) senior figures, Grainne Hurst and Stephen Hodgson, have expressed their concerns over a possible rise in UK gambling taxes during a government select committee session held on Tuesday.
Chief Executive Hurst and Tax Policy Advisor Hodgson have been at the forefront of efforts to oppose what has become a widely expected move, publishing several reports and public statements outlining their position.
With less than a month remaining before Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivers her Budget on 26 November, both BGC representatives were called before the Treasury Committee to share their views.
Hurst and Hodgson repeated their warning that any tax increase would strengthen the unregulated market, stressing that the regulated sector already contributes a fair share to the Exchequer.
Think tanks including the Social Market Foundation and the Institute for Public Policy Research have both advocated for higher gambling taxes, arguing that such measures could generate substantial revenue.
The BGC, however, has countered these claims, stating that the proposals could result in the loss of up to 40,000 jobs, push £8.4 billion in stakes towards the illegal market, and cut £3.1 billion from the industry’s contribution to the UK economy.
Other prominent figures within the gambling sector have also voiced their opposition in recent weeks, as debate intensifies in the lead-up to the Budget.
Entain CEO Stella David warned that the Ladbrokes and Coral parent company would need to reconsider its investment strategy, while Betfred founder Fred Done said his betting shop network could be at risk if higher taxes were introduced.
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