Think Tank Poll Reveals 43% Back Tax Increases on High-Street Gaming Venues

Recent polling from an influential think tank shows 43% of the public supports raising taxes on adult gaming centres and casinos, while the proposal focuses specifically on high-street venues that operate Category B machines. The findings come as discussions intensify around potential changes to machine games duty, which currently stands at 20% for these £2-a-spin devices. Observers note the timing aligns with broader reviews of gambling taxation ahead of anticipated policy shifts in July 2026.

Details of the Proposed Duty Adjustment

The suggested increase would double the rate from 20% to 40% on machines located in adult gaming centres and casinos, generating between £275 million and £458 million in additional annual revenue on top of the existing £600 million collected from Category B machines. This adjustment targets only higher-stake equipment in dedicated high-street locations, leaving lower-stakes machines found in pubs unaffected. Data from the polling indicates support for such measures stems from concerns over concentrated gambling activity in urban areas rather than widespread venues.

Andy Burnham's Position and Sector Context

Andy Burnham, often mentioned in political circles as a potential future prime minister, has previously voiced criticisms of the adult gaming centre sector. Those who track his statements recall earlier comments highlighting the density of these venues on high streets and their reliance on fixed-odds betting terminals. The current poll results provide fresh context for how his past positions might translate into action should he advance in government roles. Research released alongside the survey shows adult gaming centres account for a significant portion of Category B machine placements outside of betting shops.

Breakdown of Revenue and Venue Impacts

Current collections from Category B £2-a-spin machines total around £600 million yearly, according to government figures referenced in the think tank analysis. Doubling the duty rate on machines in adult gaming centres and casinos alone could add the projected £275 million to £458 million range, depending on player volume and machine utilisation rates. The proposal explicitly spares machines in pubs, which typically feature lower maximum stakes and different regulatory classifications. Figures reveal that high-street adult gaming centres represent the primary focus because they house larger numbers of these terminals in single locations.

Those who've examined the distribution data note that casinos also fall under the targeted category, yet many operate mixed machine offerings that include both Category B and lower-stake options. The think tank report distinguishes between venue types to clarify which operators would face the full increase. Evidence from the poll suggests public backing varies by region, with stronger support in areas that have seen rapid growth in adult gaming centre numbers over recent years.

Polling Methodology and Public Sentiment

The survey captured responses across a representative sample of UK adults, with 43% expressing support for the tax rise specifically on adult gaming centres and casinos. The remaining responses included opposition and undecided categories, though the report emphasises the 43% figure as notable given the specialised nature of the question. Analysts point out that questions framed around high-street gambling density tend to draw higher agreement levels compared to broader taxation topics. The release occurred on a Monday prior to wider media coverage, allowing time for sector stakeholders to review the underlying data tables.

Potential Timeline and Implementation Factors

Discussions around the duty change could gain momentum during July 2026 budget preparations, when Treasury officials typically finalise taxation adjustments. The think tank behind the poll has framed its findings as input for policymakers rather than a direct call to action. Operators of affected venues would need to model cash-flow scenarios under the higher rate, particularly those whose revenue depends heavily on Category B machine play. Historical adjustments to machine games duty have required consultation periods before final rates take effect.

Conclusion

The combination of public polling data and revenue projections places the proposed duty increase squarely in ongoing conversations about gambling taxation. The distinction between high-street adult gaming centres, casinos, and pub-based machines remains central to how any changes would apply in practice. As July 2026 approaches, further details on implementation and affected operators may emerge from official channels.