BGC: UK gambling industry may need government aid as Covid-19 restrictions ease
Trade body says politicians should show “flexibility” toward bookmakers and casinos as industry resurfaces from lockdown
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) insists the gambling industry may require further assistance from the UK government in dealing with the challenge of returning to business post-Covid-19 lockdown.
Addressing the extension of the government furlough scheme, together with its phased reduction to paying 60% of employee wages by October, the BGC said it would enable land-based casino and bingo operators to retain control over their costs as they begin to reopen.
As part of the reduction, employers will have to pay national insurance and pension contributions for all employees from August. By September, employers will be required to pay 10% of furloughed staff wages, rising to 20% in October.
At present, operators have employed a variety of systems to mitigate the effect of Covid-19 on revenue, with many agreeing executive level pay cuts to support workforces affected.
Retail staff at operators such as GVC have been furloughed due to the closure of the retail betting sector during the coronavirus pandemic.
BGC CEO Michael Dugher welcomed the continued support and clarity from the government on the extension of the furlough scheme, but highlighted the ongoing challenges for operators in dealing with returning players.
“Even though the lockdown is easing, many of our member companies – and in particular in casinos and bingo halls – will be forced to operate at a reduced capacity for the foreseeable future because of the need to maintain strict social distancing,” said Dugher.
“Given the significant contribution the hospitality and leisure sector makes to the UK economy, we would urge Mr Sunak to keep being flexible and acknowledge that it will continue to need support from the government as the country emerges from the pandemic,” Dugher added.
UK horseracing will be one of the first industries to return following Covid-19, with behind-closed doors races resuming today and strict hygiene standards being followed by all participants.