Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Conor McGinn (Labour) on Monday, 17 December 2018, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 December 2018 (named day). It was answered by Mims Davies (Conservative) on Thursday, 20 December 2018 on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Horse Racing: Betting

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what his Department’s policy is on horserace betting levy reform; and if he will make a statement.

Answer

In April 2017, we made significant reforms to the Horserace Betting Levy by fixing the Levy rate at 10% and extending the scope of the Levy to include offshore online bookmakers for the first time. These reforms resulted in an extra £45m in statutory Levy income for 2017/18 to support the racing industry and we expect a similar uplift for 2018/19.

The uplift in income from the reformed Levy has contributed to record prize money of £142.5m in 2017/18 and has also provided increased funding for equine welfare, industry recruitment and training, and measures related to veterinary science and education.

We note the Parliamentary Scrutiny committees’ reports regarding proposed changes to the administration of the reformed Levy and will consider them carefully.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
202829
Session
2017-19
Registered interest declared
Yes
Subjects
Betting Horse racing Reform Taxation
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk