LABOUR has been accused of a reckless cash grab over plans to raise gambling firms’ licence fees by up to 30 per cent.
The Government says the rise is needed to address a funding shortfall and help the Gambling Commission’s war on illegal betting markets.
A consulation suggests three options — a 30 per cent rise, which would cost firms £8.7million extra a year.
A second option is a 20 per cent rise.
The third is also 20 per cent, plus ten per cent ringfenced for tackling black markets.
Any changes will kick in from October 1.
Last week William Hill said it is shutting stores, blaming tax rises in Rachel Reeves’ Budget.
Shadow Culture Minister Louie French said: “Labour’s war on fun has taken a reckless new turn.
“The new costs will put jobs at risk and push more gamblers to black markets.”
An industry source added: “Black market gangs hit the jackpot under Rachel Reeves, and now we’re being told to pay millions more to police it.
“They’re clueless.”
The Betting and Gaming Council said any rise must be good value.
