The UK Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, expressed in Parliament that she was determined to “strike the right balance” on the issue of gambling industry taxes.

Reports have been circulating that the government is considering raising taxes for the gambling industry, and Conservative MP Dr Luke Evans raised the issue directly in the House of Commons.

“As the Secretary of State said, we want this industry to thrive, yet this week that was threatened after it was rumoured that the Treasury is planning a £3bn tax raid. That has already seen £3bn wiped off the value of bookies.

“Can the Secretary of State clarify whether she supports the industry or the Treasury?”

Nandy replied: “I gently say to the hon. Gentleman that he should know, as we do, that we cannot believe everything we read in the papers. As he will have heard in my previous answer, we are determined to strike the right balance.

“We are aware of the value of this industry and of its importance, and not just for the UK economy but for the joy it brings to many people and the employment prospects it offers in every nation and region of the United Kingdom.

“We are also aware of the problems that can be caused by problem gambling. Like the previous Government, we are determined to talk to the widest range of partners and ensure that we strike the right balance between protecting people from the problems that can ensue and supporting a growing industry.”