John Hemming, MP for Birmingham Yardley, today signalled his support for the bingo industry in its campaign to secure a future for bingo clubs across the UK. Some 200 are under threat of closure as a result of a combination of Government policies. He has today tabled an Early Day Motion calling upon the Government to review the tax structure and to take the necessary steps to secure a future for Britain’s bingo clubs, which will also be badly affected by the smoking ban. In Scotland, 21 clubs have already closed. “This is an important issue for many of my constituents who have written to me because they are concerned for the future of their club” said Mr Hemming. “At the moment, bingo is taxed twice, paying both gross profits tax and VAT. It is the only mainstream gaming activity to be taxed in this way, and this additional tax is making life very difficult for many clubs.” “I have visited my local club and seen how important bingo is in the social lives of so many people in my constituency. It is important that when the smoking ban takes effect on 1 July that the combination of this and double taxation does not spell the end for many small clubs”, he added. “By removing VAT, the Government could take a crucial step to assist the industry in adjusting to life after the ban. For many clubs, this could be a lifeline.” EDM No 1631 - Protection of Bingo Clubs