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Rules and licensingBetting bosses warn the chancellor against higher taxes
Chief executives from major betting companies urge the treasury to freeze planned duty increases before the autumn budget.
Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 19 October 2026
Bosses running some of the biggest betting companies in the country wrote an urgent letter to the treasury head. They asked the government to rule out any gambling tax increases in the upcoming budget announcement on the twenty eighth of October. The executives warn that higher taxes will force businesses to close more shops and cut jobs across the country.
Industry warnings on jobs and closures
The Betting and Gaming Council states that member companies communicated their strong opposition to raising gambling duties. Operators want officials to put the planned increase in the general betting duty on hold until April twenty twenty seven. They also object to plans that could double the machine games duty from twenty percent to forty percent. Industry leaders believe any future tax rises should wait until the full effects of past tax increases are measured properly.
Signatures from major betting brands
Executives from prominent firms signed the letter to halt the tax changes. Signatories include leaders from Entain, bet365, Ballys Corporation, Evoke, Betfred, and Flutter UK and Ireland. These companies argue that the sector already faces heavy financial pressures from the worsening economy and previous tax adjustments. Major brands have already announced layoffs and shop closures over recent years.
Potential fallout for public funds and racing
Data provided by the gambling commission shows that the total number of betting shops in Great Britain has dropped significantly. Industry analysis suggests that aggressive tax hikes could cost the treasury millions of pounds in lost revenue. British horseracing could also suffer major financial losses due to lower levy payments and reduced media rights income.
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Punters might see fewer high street betting shops and changing market conditions if the government pushes ahead with higher industry taxes.