BGC Urges UK Government to Accelerate Casino Reopening Plans

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has urged the UK government to allow land-based casinos to reopen from July. BGC also highlighted the safety measures being taken by the operators.

Betting and Gaming Council chief executive Michael Dugher said it was clear the venues had “pulled out all the stops” after visiting Rialto Casino in the heart of London.

Casinos in the UK have been closed since March as part of the national effort to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Mr. Dugher said: “I was hugely impressed by what I saw at the Rialto Casino, one of the Grosvenor casinos. From markings urging social distancing on the floor, to multiple hand sanitisers, sanitised chips and screens separating customers and staff, it’s obvious they have pulled out all the stops to make sure they can re-open safely. I know other operators from across the country are making similar efforts and investment.

“We were obviously disappointed by the Government’s decision not to let casinos reopen again on 4 July, but I would urge ministers to look at the anti-Covid measures casinos have introduced, reconsider the decision to keep them closed and let casinos open their doors safely later in July.

“We want to play our part in kick starting the economy, just like other parts of the leisure, entertainment and hospitality industry. In this time of great economic uncertainty, the contribution that casinos make to the nation’s finances cannot be under-estimated. We hope that the Government will respond positively and quickly – and avoid the threat of significant job losses.”