Well, it was hoped by many in the Bingo industry that Alistair Darling would have addressed VAT on Bingo earnings in today’s Budget, following lots of lobbying from the industry and the gaining of support from a number of MPs. It was all for nought though, not only did the Chancellor do nothing to help the industry, it has made matters worse by increasing the rate on Amusement Machine License Duty.
It’s disappointing to see this hasn’t been addressed, but not surprising. With all the interest and support that the Bingo Association has raised in their quest to get VAT scraped on Bingo, I think it was always a tad over-optimistic. The Bingo Association has their response to the Budget at their site. It reckons as many as 108 Bingo halls could close in the coming years.
