Gambling Tax Rises Threaten UK Jobs Despite Record Sports Investment

The UK government has recently announced a £400 million funding package dedicated to grassroots sports, part of a wider £900 million investment aimed at strengthening the country’s sporting future. While this move has been welcomed by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), which represents the UK’s licensed gambling sector, it comes at a time of rising concern within the casino and wider gaming industry over potential tax reforms targeting the online betting market.

Alongside its commitment to grassroots sport, the government has outlined a Modern Industrial Strategy that includes plans for an “internationally competitive” tax framework. However, the BGC has reiterated its firm opposition to the proposed Remote Betting and Gaming Duty (RBGD), which would merge various taxes on online gambling into a single levy. Industry leaders argue that the proposal could disproportionately burden operators, threaten jobs, and drive players toward unregulated black-market gambling.

Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the BGC, stressed that while the gambling sector supports the government’s focus on growth and business development, any tax hike would be counterproductive. She noted that the UK’s world-class land-based casinos, betting shops, and online platforms play a crucial role in the national economy. It is supporting thousands of jobs and contributing heavily to local regeneration, tourism, and entertainment.

Betting Industry Champions Grassroots Sport Through Sponsorship and Funding

Despite concerns over the tax landscape, the BGC welcomed the government’s investment in grassroots sports, noting that gambling operators have long been key contributors to local sports communities. The funding package is designed to strengthen the UK’s ability to host major international events, including Euro 2028, the European Athletics Championships in 2026, and stages of the Tour de France in 2027.

BGC members such as Entain and Flutter Entertainment have already made significant contributions to sports development. Entain’s Pitching In initiative supports non-league football clubs in the Trident Leagues (Isthmian, Northern Premier, and Southern Leagues), helping improve facilities and foster local talent. Meanwhile, Flutter’s Cash4Clubs has provided over £6.5 million in small grants to community clubs across the UK and Ireland since 2008, with a strong focus on underserved regions.

The BGC also highlighted its members’ continued sponsorship of major sports, including horse racing, darts, snooker, rugby league, and football. Grainne Hurst praised the government’s recognition of how sport “tells our national story.” The recognition is in addition to highlighting that gambling operators are proud to support the pipeline of future sporting talent.