As the UK economy charts a course of expansion, registering a 0.7% growth in Q1 2025 amidst global financial uncertainties, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) is voicing its concerns about ensuring the gaming industry isn’t sidelined during this period of economic upturn. This insight was derived from the latest economic figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), highlighting the resilience of the UK’s economy.

Grainne Hurst, CEO of BGC, took this opportunity not only to laud these positive outcomes but also to shed light on what she perceives as conflicting governmental policies that escalate business costs. She pointed out that sectors such as retail and hospitality, which are pivotal in job creation, have been significantly impacted by increased employer National Insurance contributions and business rates. The Autumn Budget 2024 saw employer NIC rates jump from 13.8% to 15%, with a lowered threshold for payment initiation from £9,100 to £5k earlier in April.

This adjustment has imposed additional

financial burdens on sectors reliant on substantial manpower, including retail and hospitality, complicating their hiring processes and workforce planning efforts. Amidst these challenges, Hurst strategically positions the betting and gaming sector alongside these industries to highlight the compounded strain resulting from government plans aimed at harmonizing gambling tax.

The push towards tax harmonization comes at a time when online gambling is at its zenith within the UK market. The government’s decision to review remote gambling duties signifies an impending consolidation of three distinct tax categories—Remote Gaming Duty (21%), General Betting Duty (15%), and Pool Betting Duty (15%)—into a singular Remote Betting and Gaming Duty (RBGD). This move is anticipated to elevate the latter two taxes. In response, His Majesty’s Revenues and Customs (HMRC) initiated a public consultation focusing on the technicalities surrounding this new tax regime’s implementation set to conclude on July 21.

In an assertive bid to sway government opinion in favor of the gaming industry, Hurst extended an invitation to Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross for an immersive experience by visiting betting shops firsthand. This gesture aims to underscore how retail betting environments have evolved over a decade—from traditional bookies into spaces resembling coffee shops.

Hurst passionately articulates that while BGC members welcome recent economic growth figures with open arms, their support for Chancellor’s growth agenda hinges on reciprocal backing from ministers across all industries—including betting and gaming. She emphasizes that fostering investment and employment within the UK necessitates stability rather than counterproductive tax hikes threatening jobs and growth prospects.

Through these strategic moves and statements, BGC underlines its commitment not just to safeguarding its own interests but also contributing positively towards sustaining UK’s economic momentum without compromising one of its dynamic sectors—the betting and gaming industry.