MPs were graciously invited to grace the humble betting shops of Paddy Power, William Hill, Ladbrokes, Coral, Betfred, or even their local independent betting shop in their constituency.
The purpose? To place a charity bet organized by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), the epitome of standards in the regulated industry.
Over 40 MPs from both sides of the House, displaying their undying dedication to public service, are flocking to these establishments to wager on the Grand National. With a generous £50 handed to each MP, they can back a horse in this world-renowned steeplechase, with all winnings generously bestowed upon a charity of their choice.
But fear not, even if Lady Luck fails to bestow her blessings upon them, BGC members will make a princely donation of £250 to the MP's nominated charity. After all, we must ensure that no one misses out on the joys of charity betting. Last year's Grand National charity bet drive managed to raise a staggering amount of just under £11,000 for a range of charities. Astonishing, isn't it?
During these prestigious visits, MPs were treated to enlightening speeches by the staff about the vast array of safer gambling measures available. Who knew that the hallowed halls of bookmakers held the key to responsible betting? Levelling Up Minister Dehenna Davison MP, Shadow DCMS Minister Alex Davies-Jones MP, Minister for Enterprise Kevin Hollinrake, and COP26 President Alok Sharma MP are just a few of the esteemed parliamentarians joining in on the betting frenzy.
They will be accompanied by illustrious figures such as Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey, former Labour Cabinet Minister John Spellar, former DCMS Minister Caroline Dinenage MP, and Shadow Apprenticeships Minister Toby Perkins, among others. Truly, a gathering of the finest minds in the realm of horse race betting.
The Grand National, an event watched by millions across the globe, takes place this year on April 15. It is estimated that around 600 million people across 140 countries will tune in, with a mere 13 million adults in the UK placing a bet. A paltry number, considering the scale of this renowned event.
According to the esteemed research conducted by the Betting and Gaming Council, a staggering £250 million will be wagered on the main event. And fear not, for this grand occasion is expected to generate a momentous £3 million in tax revenues for the Treasury, not to mention the £2 million in horse racing levy to support the sport. Oh, the generosity knows no bounds!
Michael Dugher, the Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, graciously thanked the MPs for their valuable time and effort in meeting their local constituents working in these esteemed establishments. He praised them for backing such noble causes and local charities while simultaneously promoting the Grand National, a true gem in Britain's cultural and sporting events. One can only imagine the world holding its breath in anticipation.
Oh, and let us not forget the remarkable analysis carried out by Serve Legal, revealing that UK betting shops have surpassed convenience stores, supermarkets, and even petrol forecourts in their age verification checks. Truly, an achievement for the ages!
With 42,000 jobs supported by these magnificent betting shops, contributing a mere £800 million a year in tax to the Treasury and an additional £60 million in business rates to local councils, one can only marvel at their societal contributions. According to the esteemed ESA Retail study, 89% of betting shop customers magnanimously combine their trips to these establishments with visits to other local businesses. How charming!
And let us not overlook the fact that, according to the Gambling Commission, a staggering 22.5 million adults in the UK engage in the delightful pastime of gambling each month. From lottery tickets to bingo, visiting casinos to online betting, they indulge in various forms of risk-taking that bring them unparalleled joy and excitement.
We are utterly thrilled by the latest figures from the independent regulator, the Gambling Commission, which shows a minuscule decrease in problem gambling rates among UK adults, plummeting from 0.3% to a mere 0.2% in the span of a year. What a remarkable achievement! Truly, a cause for celebration.
In conclusion, we can only express our deepest gratitude to the noble MPs who have embarked on this charitable betting expedition. May their wagers be fruitful, their chosen charities rejoice, and the Grand National continue to reign as one of Britain's most prestigious cultural and sporting events, admired by the world over.