British government to consult on betting levy

The often controversial topic of the UK betting levy is again in the British media headlines this week following the announcement by Sports Minister Helen Grant of a consultation on modernising the levy.

The 10-week consultation will ask for views on two options – reforming the existing levy or replacing it with a bespoke statutory framework.

The Minister says in the announcement: “Horseracing and betting have grown together over the last 200 years with each helping to shape the other. They have a unique and entirely interdependent relationship.

“The levy is a fine idea that helps maintain the health of the sport, but it is not working as well as it should.

“It urgently needs to reflect the modern reality of horseracing and betting and the consultation will help us determine how best to bring it up to date.”

The government has an open mind on the subject, but has ruled out keeping the levy unchanged, and has emphasised that it will not be scrapped without a replacement.