Gambling News

The UK’s Bingo Association launched a new campaign yesterday amid fears that Bingo operators face a double whammy from the incipient smoking ban and rival forms of gambling which, unlike Bingo, are zero-rated for VAT. Here’s the press release:

‘STOP DESTROYING BINGO!’ SAYS LINDA ROBSON. BRITAINS 3 MILLION REGULAR PLAYERS CALLED TO ACT NOW

Bingo players across the UK will join together from today, 5 March 2007, to urge the Government to stop destroying bingo led by bingo playing star, Linda Robson and The Bingo Association. With over 200 clubs under threat of closure as a result of too much tax and legislation, including the smoking ban, clubs and players are launching a national campaign calling on the government to “Stop Destroying My Bingo”.

With millions of people playing Bingo every year and many small independent operators under threat, Linda Robson, playing this week with her mum and daughter, has called on players and supporters to act now! Speaking at the Gala Bingo Club Surrey Quays, Linda said: “Bingo is a key part of many communities and closing clubs will have a devastating effect on community spirit nationwide. Tell me another activity where three different generations can go out together and have an equal amount of enjoyment, excitement and success. We have all been playing Bingo for years, we love it and look forward to meeting up with the regulars every week for a natter. I see players as young as 20 to those in their late 80s having a great time together. I’m even a Bingo caller for the Hopes and Dreams charity in Essex and I know how much it means to them to get together with their friends, offering them a safe, stimulating and fun environment.”

Bingo clubs are not getting a fair deal, as bingo is taxed harder than other gaming and the burden is hitting the clubs. In Scotland, where the smoking ban was introduced last year, clubs have seen a severe downturn in business of up to 120%, with some smaller clubs already losing money. Twenty clubs across the UK have now closed and predictions are that things will get worse.

Linda Robson commented further: “Bingo is facing its toughest year ever because of a number of policies imposed on it by this government. To keep Bingo alive for future generations we need everyone to act NOW and get down to their local Bingo club and sign the petition.”

Players and supporters can sign the petition by visiting their local club (you can find your nearest club by visiting www.nationlbingo.co.uk and going to the club search section), calling 01582 860 900 or going on-line to www.backbingo.co.uk where you can print a petition form off and send it Freepost to The Bingo Association.