Michael Dugher, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, has called on Rishi Sunak to deliver a “Budget for jobs” when he faces the House of Commons.

Dugher has advocated that the regulated gambling industry played its part in helping the Treasury ensure Britain recovers stronger from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Using a report from earlier this year that suggested BGC members support 119,000 jobs, generate £4.5bn ($6.2bn) in tax and contribute £7.7bn to the economy in gross value added, Mr Dugher emphasised the important economic contribution the regulated betting and gaming industry has made.

Additionally, the BGC has promised to create 5,000 apprenticeships by 2025 through its support for the Government’s Plan For Jobs.

After being closed for months at a time during lockdown, land-based venues like betting shops and casinos are getting back on their feet and starting again to make a contribution to the economy. Mr Dugher insisted on how important it is that Mr Sunak comes up with a Budget to support the “hard-pressed high streets and the badly-hit hospitality sector,” while continuing to promote growth in Britain’s tech companies (including online betting and gaming firms).

Mr Dugher added: “Our members are ready, willing and able to assist in the post-pandemic economic recovery. They already support tens of thousands of jobs across the UK, helping to generate billions of pounds in revenue for the Treasury, and with ambitious plans for further expansion in the years to come.

"I, therefore, hope that the Chancellor delivers a Budget for jobs that will help to repair the damage done by Covid, sustain the economic recovery and – with the full support of the regulated betting and gaming industry – help Britain to build back better.”