The Scottish Greens have called for a new tax on casinos and bookmakers as part of this year’s budget, arguing that gambling venues should contribute directly to the cost of the harm caused by the industry.
The proposal would place an additional levy on the non domestic rates paid by physical gambling venues in Scotland, with the money directed towards recovery programmes and public services such as the NHS that often deal with the consequences of gambling addiction.
The move is intended to mirror recent action by the UK Government to increase taxes on online gambling companies, extending the principle to bricks and mortar premises on Scotland’s high streets.
The Greens say the economic cost of gambling harm in the UK is estimated to be at least £1 billion each year, a figure widely regarded as a significant underestimate given the long term impacts on health, families and communities.
The party argues that while gambling firms generate substantial profits, the social and financial burden of addiction is often carried by public services and those directly affected.
Scottish Greens co leader Ross Greer said:
“Casinos and bookies make a fortune out of addiction and misery.
“It is time they paid their fair share towards the services forced to deal with the painful consequences of problem gambling.
“The Chancellor has increased tax rates for online gambling companies, giving us the perfect opportunity to do the same for physical gambling venues in Scotland.
“That’s why Green MSPs have made this proposal to the Scottish Government.
“If these businesses are fuelling and profiting from addiction, then they should also pay towards dealing with the health and social costs for individuals, their families and communities.
“The consequences of problem gambling can be extremely harmful, addictive and life destroying.
“And that’s not to mention the damage done to high streets and local economies by the abundance of betting shops owned by companies operating in international tax havens.
“We must prioritise people’s wellbeing over the profits of tax dodging betting firms.
“That means taxing those companies causing the most harm.”
The proposal is expected to form part of wider budget discussions at Holyrood, as parties debate how best to balance public finances while addressing long standing social issues.
