New Commons Speaker Backs Bingo Campaign

New speaker signs early-day motion urging government to re-think bingo tax hike.

John Bercow, the new House of Commons speaker, is a supporter of the bingo industry.

According to the Sun, the Conservative MP is one of 100 politicians who have signed an early-day motion urging the government to reconsider its recent hike in bingo duty.

The newspaper reports that Mr Bercow put his name to the document seven days before his appointment as Michael Martin's successor on Monday (June 22nd).

Commenting on the development, Rank Group chief executive Ian Burke told the publication: "The support we have received from MPs from all parties shows the strength of feeling there is about what the government is doing to bingo.

"It's good to see that our new speaker believes in fair play too."

Bingo operators claim that the government's decision to increase duty on the game from 15 per cent to 22 per cent could lead to the closure of many more bingo venues around the country.

Mr Bercow began his new job yesterday, abandoning the traditional robes worn by Mr Martin in favour of a suit, tie and gown. Unlike his predecessor, he also said that he will not be claiming the parliamentary second-home allowance.