The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is introducing a new fee structure in April 2017 that is said to benefit most of operators. However, a few of them will see their fees rise.
The findings of the consultation with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport regarding the new fee structure were announced on UKGC website. The responses to the consultation were received from various stakeholders, including licensed gambling operators, trade associations and members of the public.
The new fee structure will “reduce the overall fee burden across the industry by over 10%” says UKGC. Around 1900 operators will have their fees reduced (the number varies from 2% to 75%). 1000 licensees will continue to maintain the current level of the rates. For around 75 operators the new structure will mean increased fees. For these licensees the fees will rise as high as 140% of their current level.
Further, the 20 largest operators might face an additional annual payment of £164k. However, first-time licensees will get a 25% discount on their first-year fees.
The new fee structure was created to ensure that the UKGC’s costs were “recovered on a proportionate basis from different types and sizes of operator.”
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