Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Simon Kirby and Justine Greening

Tuesday 8th June 2010 Commons Chamber

[Simon Kirby (Brighton, Kemptown) (Con)]

17. What his policy is on taxation of the bingo industry; and if he will make a statement.

[The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Justine Greening)]

We keep all taxes under review. It would not be appropriate to discuss taxation in relation to bingo before the Budget in a couple of weeks, but we are keen to have a dialogue with the industry.

[Simon Kirby]

Does the Minister agree that sometimes it is possible to increase revenue by reducing taxes?

[Justine Greening]

I think that my hon. Friend is probably referring to the well-known Laffer curve. I am sure that he is aware, too, that the tax on bingo participation clubs was reduced in the last Budget from 22% to 20%. As I said, I look forward to talking to the industry over the coming months.