MP backs bingo industry

MP John Hemming has pledged his support to the UK bingo industry just days before the land-based game is potentially plunged into chaos.

Mr Hemming has expressed his anger at a number of government policies which have had or are set to have a negative impact on the industry.

He has tabled an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons, asking the government to reconsider its current tax structure.

Bingo is currently forced to pay tax twice and when the smoking ban comes in on July 1st, many people fear that their bingo hall will become a thing of the past.

"At the moment, bingo is taxed twice, paying both gross profits tax and VAT. It is the only mainstream gaming activity to be taxed in this way, and this additional tax is making life very difficult for many clubs," said Mr Hemming.

"Bingo is important in the social lives of so many people in my constituency. It is important that when the smoking ban takes effect on July 1st that the combination of this and double taxation does not spell the end for many small clubs."

The MP called on the government to axe VAT for bingo clubs which he described as a "lifeline" for many people.

Since a smoking ban was introduced in Scotland, 21 Bingo clubs have already shut down.

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