Key facts
- Chancellor John Healey is reportedly considering a 5-percentage-point increase in Machine Games Duty (MGD) to 25%.
- A larger increase to 40% has been proposed by some campaign groups and political figures.
- Industry figures warn that a substantial MGD hike could lead to significant job losses and betting shop closures.
- Flutter Entertainment is cutting up to 1,400 jobs, blaming previous tax increases.
Doubts have emerged over the proposed increase to the UK's Machine Games Duty (MGD) just days before the Autumn Budget is due on October 28. Chancellor John Healey is reportedly considering a rise from 20% to 25%, a move that would be less severe than the 40% increase advocated by some campaign groups and politicians. The gambling industry has warned that a substantial tax hike could lead to widespread betting shop closures and significant job losses.