New Government advice, issued on 16 March, suggested the general public should avoid social contact, stop non-essential travel and ideally work from home where possible.

And the BGC has called on Chancellor Rishi Sunak to provide assistance to help businesses and employees that will be impacted, as casinos face a crisis with customer levels dropping 90% at some casinos within the past week, according the Council's own research.

Specifically, the BGC wants priority for employment costs, such as added time to pay on Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and National Insurance Contributions (NIC) liabilities, alongside business rates relief.  

The association estimates betting shops face a decrease of up to 60% trade on sports betting alone, with the postponement and cancellation of major sports events, including the Grand National.

BGC CEO Michael Dugher said: "We face an unprecedented challenge to keep both customers and staff safe during the COVID-19 health crisis.

"Like all other parts of the hospitality, leisure and entertainment industries, the immediate priority for the future of our members in the casino, bingo and betting industry is the ability to pay staff.

"We are speaking with the Government to ensure they are fully aware of the crisis facing our members, and discussing the steps necessary to help the leisure industry and their staff through this incredibly challenging period."