The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has strongly opposed the UK government's proposed increase in Gambling Commission fees and Machine Games Duty. The government, following a consultation, announced plans to raise Machine Games Duty by 25% from October 1, 2026, through the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
BGC Warns of Community Impact
The BGC argues that the changes will harm local communities by causing job losses and venue closures. A statement from the Council said: “We fundamentally oppose any increase in Machine Games Duty and nothing in this report justifies such a damaging policy.”
The BGC highlighted that the regulated betting and gaming sector supports around 109,000 jobs and contributes billions to the UK economy. It provides leisure venues for millions of adults who gamble responsibly.
Concerns Over Illegal Market Growth
The Council warned that doubling Machine Games Duty would force venue closures and weaken high streets, while benefiting the growing illegal gambling market, which pays no tax and offers no consumer protections. The statement criticised the report for failing to quantify the potential job losses or venue closures.
The BGC also noted that the report's own polling shows a majority of people, across the political spectrum, do not support increasing taxes on gaming machines. The Council called for evidence-led and proportionate tax policy.
Recent Tax Changes
Any changes to Machine Games Duty would follow the increase in remote gaming duty and the introduction of a general gaming duty last April, affecting both high street bookmakers and online casino sites.
