The Betting and Gaming Council has welcomed the latest update from the Government which has seen an extended business rate relief to all that have had to shut down.
This latest announcement comes after the BGC had called for inclusion in the scheme following its order on Friday to shut down all casinos, betting shops and bingo clubs. The BGC stated that without the ability to generate revenue, the majority of employment in the betting and gaming industry were at risk.
Michael Dugher, BGC chief executive, commented: “The Government are clearly working night and day to beat the virus and to ensure that jobs and businesses throughout our country are protected.
“On top of the help on employment, extending help on business rates to all businesses that have had to shut down is another much-needed shot in the arm that will help to protect tens of thousands of jobs.
“On behalf of those workers in our companies, I’d like to thank the Treasury and cross-party MPs for this and to pay tribute in particular to the DCMS, including our outstanding Minister Nigel Huddleston, for all their support.
“Our industry will in turn do its absolute utmost to help with the fight against the virus and play our part in this historic national effort, including offering up staff and premises to help.
“And although gambling has fallen markedly with betting shops and casinos closing, and with the lack of sport which accounts for a big chunk of online betting too, we are also stepping up our safer gambling measures at this time”
The Chancellors support package now includes; business rate holidays, 80 per cent of wages up to £2,500 cap backdated to March 1 and initially open for three months, Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme which is interest-free for 12 months and next quarters VAT payments deferred.
