A recent poll revealed that a majority of voters support the idea of increasing taxes on gambling companies to combat child poverty. The survey, conducted by Survation for the advocacy group 38 Degrees, showed that 64% of respondents back this proposal, which was endorsed by former Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Only 14% of the 8,000 individuals surveyed expressed opposition to the notion of implementing a higher tax on gambling firms to help reduce the incidence of child poverty.
Gordon Brown, who served as Chancellor from 1997 to 2007, suggested that targeting the substantial profits of gambling companies could generate £3.2 billion. He proposed utilizing this revenue to eliminate the two-child benefit policy introduced during the Conservative era, a measure criticized for exacerbating child poverty.
Matthew McGregor, CEO of 38 Degrees, emphasized the public’s strong desire for major gambling corporations to contribute their fair share in taxes. He urged that it is time for these companies to step up and fulfill their financial responsibilities. McGregor also highlighted the opportunity to rescind the two-child benefit cap with the funds raised, asserting it as a logical step for a government committed to addressing child poverty.
Joseph Howes, CEO of Buttle UK and Chair of the End Child Poverty Coalition, emphasized the detrimental impact of the two-child limit on child poverty rates, stressing the urgency of revising this policy within the government’s child poverty strategy. He underscored the importance of lifting children out of poverty to ensure they have access to basic necessities and a fulfilling childhood.
In response to these calls, Rachel Reeves, who is set to present the government’s Budget on November 26, indicated openness to considering a hike in gambling taxes. She mentioned an ongoing review of gambling taxes and pledged to outline the government’s policy decisions in due course through the Budget announcement later this year.
