Mr Hayes Backs Bingo
It’s no wonder that so many voter’s become so cynical regarding politics and politicians generally. What with conflicting and self-serving statements coming from so many MPs these days, especially regarding the new tax regime which so seriously affects bingo!
Yes, the Government increased the tax, and at the same time had the hide to say they were actually reducing it! But are they any worse than an Opposition that makes a lot of noise about how unfair it is, yet when it comes to a vote abstaining! They’re all the same (meaning politicians) some people might say but would you rather trust someone who comes right out with what they intend to do, even if it’s a mistake, or someone who says one thing and does another?
For those who are not completely up to date with the play, the latest statement from Shadow Minister John Hayes MP, must fall into the “talk don’t do – who are you trying to kid’” category. Mr Hayes, has allegedly pledged his support to reduce the gross profits tax on bingo after a recent visit to the Regent Bingo Club in Spalding.
Why do we say ‘allegedly’? Well to start with Mr Hayes is part of an Conservative Opposition that did plenty of talking about how dreadful the tax regime (against bingo was) but when it can to the crunch line, the vote – the Conservative ABSTAINED. Surely, if they (the Conservatives) where truly concerned about the future of bingo and the bingo community, they would have passionately stood up and voted for the amendment and did everything they could to reject the tax increase on bingo?
Surely they should have practiced what they were preaching? Frankly their cries now can only be labeled hypocrisy. Have the Conservatives decided to try to have it both ways by “sitting on the fence on their hands”? It appears they definitely want it both ways – hopefully the Bingo world wont let them get away with it!
Players, operators and management of bingo should be ready to fight any and all for the future of the industry.
Part of the reasoning could very well be that by promising to reduce the tax when they get into power, that they will be able to garner the financial support of the bingo world – it seems pretty apparent that that is what they may very well have in mind, doesn’t it?
Well, hopefully those in positions of influence within the bingo industry will hold back a little and request firm (even written) promises before they part with any funds to help people who’ve done nothing to help them.
From experience and observation it is considered that politicians are counting on the short memories of the average voter and their apathy. Bingo community hold the pollies up to attention and demand that they actually DO something this time not just talk about it!
When MPs like Mr Hayes, make statements like “I totally get it, bingo is an extremely important social function and should be preserved” wouldn’t it be a good idea to ask them “how did you actually vote when it came to the amendment?”. Interesting to hear that reply.
