BGC Warns of Impact of New Points-based Immigration System on Casino Industry

The Betting and Gaming Council has warned that the new points-based immigration system could have a negative impact on casinos, tourism and the night-time economy.

Currently, 70% of croupiers in the UK are from overseas. Under the new system due to be introduced on 1 January 2021, croupiers will not qualify as having the specific skills, qualifications, salaries or professions.

The Federation of Small Businesses has warned that the proposed measures will hit hospitality and tourism businesses hard.

Casinos employ over 14,000 people, indirectly support another 4000 jobs across the UK and contribute over £300 million in tax revenue every year.

BGC Chief Executive, Michael Dugher, said:

“Casinos are a hugely important part of our country’s leisure industry attracting thousands of wealthy tourists to the UK from around the world. In order to remain competitive our casinos need the best croupiers with great arithmetic agility.

“While we are determined to grow the number of UK croupiers through the NVQ in Gaming Operations available at many colleges and through the world class Nottingham Casino Academy, we need the ability to employ the best from around the world.

“Using arbitrary skills or salary requirements will damage highly successful parts of the UK economy.

“The government has announced exemptions for certain workers and skills and we urge the Government to work with the casino and wider hospitality industry to ensure that we can continue to thrive.”