David Williams, director of public affairs at Rank Group, has stated that UK casino reforms are needed now more than ever.
Speaking on behalf of the Betting and Gaming Council, he said: "A statutory Levy is coming our way. Casinos will, over the next three to four years, find themselves paying 300 per cent more towards research, prevention and treatment of gambling-related harms.
"We recognise the arguments in favour of elevated payment levels, notwithstanding some reservations about how the money will be put to use.
"We can layer on top of these cost increases the disappointment felt by casinos in the recent Autumn Statement when the Chancellor chose to freeze casino duty bands rather than moving them in line with inflation.
"The Treasury’s numbers point to a £5m benefit to the Exchequer. At the same time, fragile consumer confidence and wider inflationary pressures all combine to impact casinos as we look ahead to the new year.
"In many businesses, these costs would simply be passed to the consumer in terms of higher prices. Casinos can’t do that. We can’t sell a £10 chip for £11.20."
Read his statement in full here.
