News

U.K. amusement group calls for government support for COVID-19 recovery

Logo provided.

May 6, 2020

Bacta, the U.K.'s amusement trade organization, has released a report focused on getting the amusement machine sector back to work following the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a press release.

The report has been distributed to government, associated trade bodies in the leisure sector and the press.

Entitled "Returning the FUN to Britain’s High Streets and Seaside Towns – A plan to get the amusement machine sector back to work," notes that operating costs are still up to 55% of normal, despite the fact there is no income during lockdown. The report also said the supply chain is not protected by current government support offered to public-facing businesses. 

Bacta is asking for the following support from the government in order for the sector to survive:

• Continuation of the Job Retention Scheme for the duration of business closures and maybe beyond for seasonal businesses.
• 100% rates relief for 2020/2021 including supply chain and continued into 2022.
• Tapered increase in grants for businesses with a ratable value of over £51,000 ($63.183).
• Deferral of indirect tax payments until summer 2021 including PAYE, VAT and MGD.
• Premises license rebates from local councils and rebates from the Gambling Commission.