FOBT revenue shortfall to be covered by increased RGD

Somewhat hidden by today’s news of the reduction of FOBT maximum stakes to £2 is an announcement on the DCMS website that says:

“In order to cover any negative impact on the public finances, and to protect funding for vital public services, this change will be linked to an increase in Remote Gaming Duty, paid by online gaming operators, at the relevant Budget”. 

The backlash from the remote gambling sector is awaited.

UPDATE: As forecast above, one day after the above announcement, it has been reported in EGR that “the Remote Gambling Association has pledged to fight back against plans to raise taxes on online operators to cover a shortfall in lost tax revenue from FOBTs, describing the UK government’s justification as ‘unfair’”.