Bingo tax levels have been slammed by a potential Conservative candidate in Taunton, reports the Somerset County Gazette.
Mark Formosa, who is hopeful of standing for the Conservatives in Taunton's next general election, called the numbers during a recent session in Taunton's Mecca Bingo.
And after having an enjoyable evening watching people play bingo, he criticised the way bingo clubs are taxed and the impact this is having on bingo hall closures.
He told the newspaper: "I was struck by how the people who were playing came from all walks of life and were there as much for a social evening out with their friends as they were to try and win prizes.
"Bingo is an important social amenity for more than three million people, especially women, the elderly, and those who live alone."
Although all gambling retailers are liable to pay 17.5 per cent VAT, bingo clubs are also liable to pay a 15 per cent gaming duty, which can be tied in as a possible reason why 100 bingo halls are expected to close this year.
Halls have already closed in the likes of Harrogate recently but luckily for bingo game play enthusiasts in Brighton, the Argus reported that an art deco hall will avoid closure after local complaints.
