Context
The Chancellor's announcements in yesterday’s Budget regarding gambling duties could lead to up to 16,000 job losses, primarily in the high-tech sector of the industry, and move £6 billion of gambling stakes into the black market.
Question
The Chancellor’s announcements in relation to gambling duty could cost the industry up to 16,000 jobs, largely in the high- tech part of that industry, and move £6 billion of gambling stakes into the black market. Does she agree that taxing something does not necessarily stop it from happening, and that this will move problem gamblers into a less regulated, illegal space?
Answer from Lisa Nandy (Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport)
We have looked at this issue as part of our work leading up to the Budget. We sought to limit the economic impact on high street businesses by focusing tax rises on parts with lower operating costs. Additionally, measures were introduced in the Budget to permanently lower business rates for over 750,000 retail and hospitality properties to help mitigate some of the impacts on betting shops. The aim is to lift 450,000 children out of poverty.
Not addressed: Job losses in high-tech gambling sector
How: We Are Aware Of The Challenges But Cannot Duck Choices.
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