MP calls for fair bingo tax at Kings Bingo in Sheerness

9th March 2012
MP calls for fair bingo tax at Kings Bingo in Sheerness

Gordon Henderson, the Conservative MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey, visited Kings Bingo Club in Sheerness on Thursday 1st March, 2012 to hear from customers and Jerry Bown, Manager of the club, about how the bingo industry is being damaged by excessive and unfair taxation.

It is widely recognised that bingo clubs play an important role within their communities, bringing people together for some inexpensive fun. Despite this, bingo clubs remain subject to a higher rate of taxation (20% Gross Profit Tax) than other forms of gambling, including online bingo (15%) and high street bookmakers (15%).

Jerry Bown was delighted Gordon had visited his local bingo club, saying:

“We appreciate Gordon taking the time to visit the club and hear how important bingo is to our regulars. It is an important community facility for all ages, and particularly for the elderly who would otherwise have very few places to enjoy their leisure time. It’s great that he is supporting us and the industry in Parliament.”

Gordon Henderson MP said:

“This was my first visit to the club and I was very impressed with the venue. I know that most of the people who play bingo use it as an opportunity for an inexpensive night out and it just doesn’t make sense that bingo pays more tax than other forms of gambling. This is an issue I will be taking up with the Treasury.”