Here are the three key questions on the racing tax put to MPs by the Racing Post - and exactly what they said

With a Treasury consultation on harmonising the rates for general betting duty, which covers activities such as racing and pool betting, and remote gaming duty, which includes casino games such as roulette, into a single tax to be called remote betting and gaming duty, closing on Monday, the Racing Post contacted 58 MPs designated as representing 'racing constituencies' by the BHA. They were asked the same three questions and given a week to respond. Below are the questions and the full responses from the MPs who replied, plus those who did not respond.

• Find out how different MPs responded to questions over the racing tax

Questions to MPs

1. What is your view on the Treasury’s proposal to harmonise remote gambling tax rates, which could result in a raise to the rate on sports betting (including horseracing) from 15 per cent to 21 per cent?

2. Do you believe this change could have negative consequences for British horseracing, which is heavily reliant on betting revenues for its funding?

3. As the MP for a constituency with a racecourse/training centre, what steps will you take to ensure the interests of British racing – and its contribution to rural economies and communities – are properly considered in this process?

• Labour MPs disengaged and divided as Racing Post survey reveals sport’s battle over 'racing tax' hike 

• Comment: racing is doing a great job at fighting the tax timebomb - but a hike to gaming duty will still damage the sport 

Stuart Anderson, Conservative MP for South Shropshire

I am resolutely opposed to this tax rise. Equalising racing with other gambling will see costs passed on to the horseracing industry, which already faces an uncertain future due to the delays to reforms of the Horseracing Betting Levy. The horseracing industry is clear in their opposition to these changes, and I am deeply concerned that the government has not properly considered the potential damage of these proposals on such an important industry for our communities and economy. I will stand up for horseracing and for Ludlow racecourse to ensure that their voices are heard by writing to ministers and speaking up in parliament. I have met with representatives of the racecourse and local trainers. I see the importance of horseracing in my constituency as vital and will continue to champion it.

David Baines, Labour MP for St Helens North

I have concerns about the Treasury's proposal to harmonise remote gambling duties, and I have written to [Treasury minister] James Murray to explain that an increase in the tax burden could lead to unwelcome economic consequences for jobs, investment, and communities like St Helens North. Horseracing has been part of our heritage for centuries, and communities like St Helens depend on it for jobs, economic growth and it is a huge part of our cultural identity. The betting industry currently contributes £350 million annually to racing and helps sustain the great events that we have at Haydock. I will do all I can to support our iconic venue.

As chair of the Rugby League APPG, I am also concerned about the impact that any changes will have on the sponsorship of the Super League, Challenge Cup as well as the women’s and the wheelchair game which is heavily reliant on this income to build and grow the sport. I have already written to Treasury ministers outlining the specific economic impact these proposals would have on St Helens and the wider region. As a member of the Racing and Bloodstock APPG, I will be supporting their work in parliament by raising issues, sharing information and asking questions about the impact on local businesses. I am in regular contact with officials at Haydock Park who keep me updated on their concerns and priorities. I also work with those local businesses that benefit from raceday visitors to build a comprehensive case for the economic importance of racing to St Helens.

John Glen, Conservative MP for Salisbury

Salisbury racecourse is a treasured part of our local sporting scene and our economic and social infrastructure. I am acutely aware of the pressure the sector is already under because of changes to BPR, APR, and National Insurance contributions, and I strenuously oppose this short-sighted raid by the government. Racing is one of our country’s oldest and finest traditions; from Tattersalls to Royal Ascot, our expertise and status is unrivalled – government has a duty to ensure we can remain competitive and attractive against strong international competition. Harmonisation of taxation on betting sounds straightforward, but it completely fails to grasp the cultural significance of racing and the unintended consequences for the industry which employs nearly 100,000 people and generates upwards of £4 billion for our economy.

Andrew Griffith, Conservative MP for Arundel and South Downs

1. What is your view on the Treasury’s proposal to harmonise remote gambling tax rates, which could result in a raise to the rate on sports betting (including horseracing) from 15 per cent to 21 per cent?
Oppose

2. Do you believe this change could have negative consequences for British horseracing, which is heavily reliant on betting revenues for its funding?
Yes

3. As the MP for a constituency with a racecourse/training centre, what steps will you take to ensure the interests of British racing – and its contribution to rural economies and communities – are properly considered in this process?
I am speaking up for the industry against this socialist government.

Monica Harding, Liberal Democrat MP for Esher

Sandown Park racecourse is an important landmark in my constituency and was the favourite racecourse of the late Queen Mother – this year Sandown celebrates its 150th anniversary at the heart of our local community. There is a distinction between betting on horseracing and the truly harmful forms of online gambling. Liberal Democrats support doubling the rate of remote gaming duty – which applies specifically to online games of chance, like slots – and oppose the government’s unconvincing proposals to harmonise gambling tax rates. The government must lay out how it would mitigate the potential risks to racing arising from this policy.

Kevin Hollinrake, Conservative MP for Thirsk & Malton

I strongly oppose this tax hike. It risks devastating consequences for British racing, especially in rural areas with leading training centres like Thirsk and Malton. Independent analysis shows it could cost the sport up to £66 million through lost levy, sponsorship, and media rights. This isn’t just bad economics – it’s yet another Labour tax rise that punishes a proud British industry and the communities that rely on it. Racing depends heavily on betting revenue, and this move threatens the jobs of thousands in a sport that supports 85,000 roles nationwide. If implemented, it could cause long-term harm to one of Britain’s most popular and culturally significant sports and to the communities we have in my area that centre around and depend on horseracing for their livelihoods. I’ll fight this proposal at every level – writing and speaking to ministers and working with MPs across parties to defend rural racing communities. From Thirsk racecourse to local trainers, owners, stable hands, jockeys, the hospitality sector and retraining centres like New Beginnings, racing is central to our local life and economy. I’ll do all I can to ensure it stays that way.

Sally Jameson, Labour MP for Doncaster Central

In Doncaster, we are incredibly proud of our historic racecourse, which is home to the iconic St Leger festival. As someone who has attended the racecourse for a number of events throughout my life, I can say that it is part of our local community and brings thousands of jobs. Nationally, horseracing brings 85,000 jobs and is the second largest spectator sport. The sport, and betting on it, is very different to that of online casinos and games of chance. For these reasons, I have spoken in parliament three times since I was elected last year to ask that the Treasury continues to discuss the proposed changes to betting taxation with the horseracing industry. Notably, on July 1, the Treasury minister reassured me that the government will continue close dialogue with the horseracing industry on these proposals to identify any unintended consequences and possible mitigations.

Rachael Maskell, Independent MP for York Central (representing Labour when responding)

We have to make the case that paying taxes is a positive act, since it enables redistribution of assets to support those in greatest need, so I believe that this is a positive step in a country where there has, for too long, been poor stewardship of our national resources. Too many people are unable to afford decent housing, are sick and disabled or can’t even afford the basics like food. Being able to make a greater contribution to see its redistribution is therefore a good thing, and ultimately makes for a better society. I am always happy to meet with constituents and businesses to see how I can support, and will if there are specific issues pertaining to York racecourse on the Knavesmire.

Ben Obese-Jecty, Conservative MP for Huntingdon

I am concerned that the harmonisation of gambling tax rates will cause significant damage to horseracing as it is a sport which has such a strong link with customers and viewers placing bets. Horseracing has higher overhead costs for providers compared to the costs for other online gambling providers, therefore it is completely unfair to put it in the same playing field. British horseracing contributes £4.1 billion to the economy and £300 million a year to the Treasury, therefore putting more taxes on the industry will cost the economy. The projected £40 billion impact of duty at 21 per cent for providers would mean less money flowing to the sport through the levy, which is a vital part of the sport’s key funding mechanism. The consequences would be catastrophic for the whole chain. Along with this, we all know that betting is a key part of what attracts people to watching and going to racedays, and these proposals would impact a significant draw to the sport.

Huntingdon racecourse has been a valued part of Huntingdon since its first meeting in 1886. As the premier sporting venue in my constituency, I value the contribution that the course makes locally, and indeed those who travel from far and wide to enjoy events there. With plans to diversify the activities on offer at the site, it has the opportunity to be a key attraction within our tourist economy. I will continue to stand up for racing, to support the work of those doing such important work for the industry and to hold Labour to account.

Manuela Perteghella, Liberal Democrat MP for Stratford-on-Avon

At first glance, the idea of simplifying gambling taxes might seem sensible. But treating all forms of gambling as if they’re the same just doesn’t work. Betting on horseracing is part of a tradition that supports rural communities and local jobs, and it’s nothing like the fast-paced world of online casino games. I’m in favour of measures to tackle gambling harm, but we need a system that’s fair and understands the differences between sectors. Right now I worry that this proposal risks doing more harm than good. Horseracing is a major employer and a source of pride in many rural areas, including here in Stratford-on-Avon. A sudden jump in the tax rate on sports betting could take tens of millions out of the sport. That would hit prize-money, reduce investment, and make it harder for small stables and training yards to stay afloat. When horseracing suffers, so do the communities that depend on it. We have to be very careful not to undermine an industry that contributes so much to local life.

I’ll always stand up for our rural economy and the people who keep it going. That includes those involved in horseracing, from trainers and grooms to small businesses linked to local race meetings. I’ve written to ministers urging them to listen to the industry and to carry out a proper impact assessment before making any changes. I’ll keep making the case in parliament and working with others across party lines to protect the future of the sport. It’s not just about racing, it’s about the jobs, heritage and community spirit that come with it.

Andrew Ranger, Labour MP for Wrexham

In principle, I find this a sensible measure to take, simplification for customers, businesses and tax authorities means reduced bureaucracy and operation costs. With most gambling and the betting landscape now operating online, the system needs review and change to bring it in line with the modern-day reality. I understand the concerns the horseracing industry has about the proposed changes, and it is right that these concerns are fully considered as part of the consultation, and I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet engaged to submit to the proposals ahead of the deadline. I am fully committed to engaging on both a local and national level with the industry and with government on this as the proposal progresses to push for an outcome that is mutually satisfactory for parties concerned.

Jack Rankin, Conservative MP for Windsor

I am strongly opposed to the creation of a single Remote Betting & Gaming Duty, and believe it is vital for all bets on horseracing to continue to be subject to a separate rate of duty to online games of chance in order to safeguard the financial stability of British racing. If the proposal to harmonise remote gambling tax rates is implemented, it will have significant unintended consequences for British racing, putting jobs at risk, stalling economic growth and jeopardising the finances of a British institution which supports 85,000 jobs and contributes £300m a year in taxation. The sport has a unique and historic symbiotic relationship with betting, meaning that is particularly susceptible to damage from ill-thought-out Treasury policy on gambling.

As the MP for Ascot and Royal Windsor racecourses, I am keenly aware of the importance of horseracing to communities across Britain. The Treasury’s proposal to harmonise betting duties would risk the future of the sport, leaving constituencies like mine without a vital cultural, sporting and economic asset that binds us together. Through tabling written parliamentary questions, writing a comment article on the issue and the work of the Racing and Bloodstock APPG, of which I am member, I have made my position on the proposal clear and ensured that the voice of British racing – and of Ascot and Royal Windsor – has been heard in the heart of government.

Graham Stuart, Conservative MP for Beverley and Holderness

Racing matters to the UK economy and, through Beverley racecourse, to Beverley. The course welcomes around 80,000 people every year and supports hospitality, jobs, transportation and so much more in and around Beverley. Racing is an historic sport that is loved by millions; it is not remotely on a par with online casino games of slot machines. The government seems to want to harm racegoers, for whom a small flutter is an important part of a day at the races. That seems wrong to me. Putting a sport still recovering from Covid at risk will only hurt local jobs. I want to see MPs with racecourses in their constituencies properly consulted. To fail to do so would be to treat racecourses as not important local businesses but as problems which need to be solved.

Cameron Thomas, Liberal Democrat MP for Tewkesbury

My main priority is protecting vulnerable people, both from gambling addiction and those businesses which prey upon them. I also recognise the value that Cheltenham racecourse brings to Tewkesbury and to Gloucestershire. There is a distinction to be made between betting on horseracing, and those who become addicted to online slots: the former is not a driver of gambling harms in the way the latter does. I am opposed to the harmonisation of gambling duties, and would in fact support an increase in the duty imposed specifically on online slots. Harmonisation would be potentially damaging for the horseracing industry, which sustains thousands of jobs across the UK. I support doubling the rate of remote gaming duty, which would raise millions for the Treasury and would discourage harmful online gambling, but would also recognise the distinct nature of sports betting.

Nick Timothy, Conservative MP for West Suffolk

Horseracing is a major economic and heritage asset to this country but introducing the Remote Betting and Gaming Duty (RBGD) would put it at extreme risk. With five million fans a year visiting 59 courses, racing is Britain’s second most popular spectator sport after football. We have the best horses, the best trainers, and four of the top ten races in the world. The industry contributes £4.1 billion to the economy and £300 million a year to the Treasury, and it keeps 100,000 people in work, including in our betting industry, supporting rural and semi-rural communities – including West Suffolk, which I represent in parliament. It is fundamentally different from online gaming. The differences between the two should be obvious. Online gaming requires no skill or knowledge and can be played over and over again at all hours. Casino online gambling is known to be extremely addictive. In contrast, betting on racing is limited by the number of races and requires information and judgment. For these reasons, the principle behind harmonising these taxes is wrong.

It also goes against how horseracing in this country is funded and operated. British horseracing depends on revenue from media rights, entry fees and executive contributions. But a third of its income comes from the Horserace Betting Levy, a statutory payment collected from bookmakers based on their profits from betting on British racing. The introduction of RBGD would certainly affect the horseracing business operating model. Although the trade in bloodstock is worth millions of pounds, profit margins are tight for breeders and trainers. They do not necessarily see a return on what they invest. We are breeding fewer thoroughbred horses, and the British racing industry is in danger of falling behind global competitors.

Every 20 horses in training is worth about £1 million in direct and indirect expenditure, supporting a range of different careers and professions. Much of this comes down to how the sport is funded. In Australia, Ireland and France, there is more government support for horseracing, through direct grants or betting taxes. More private investment is available in Japan and the United States. Prize-money, upon which our breeders and trainers depend for their income, is more modest here than in other countries. The Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot, for example, carries rewards worth £750,000. But prize-money can go as high as £3.7 million in the Dubai Turf and £2.3 million in the Hong Kong’s Champions Mile. The burden of RBGD would force horse breeders and trainers to cut back costs to the detriment of the whole industry.

I am determined to do all I can to defend what is fundamentally a great national cultural institution. As the co-chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Racing and Bloodstock, which recently produced a comprehensive report on the risks to the future of horseracing, I am acutely aware of the severe risks to the industry if the proposals go ahead. I have frequently visited and will continue to visit stables and racecourses in West Suffolk and beyond, and listen to the perspectives of those with direct experience and involvement with horseracing. Their input is invaluable. I will also continue to take every opportunity I receive to challenge the government on their plans, having previously asked if they would produce an impact assessment for the proposed remote betting and gaming duty on the British horseracing industry, and for a commitment that betting on horseracing would not be subject to the same treatment as betting on online casinos.

Matt Western, Labour MP for Warwick & Leamington

I’m of course very proud to have Warwick racecourse in the constituency. I wasn’t aware of the changes under consideration until your email and contact from my local racecourse in the last week. While I will not be providing comment at this time, I will certainly be taking the concerns you have raised into consideration and will raise them with the Treasury to understand the thinking behind this.

Liberal Democrats on behalf of Wera Hobhouse (Bath), Tim Farron (Westmorland and Lonsdale), Helen Maguire (Epsom and Ewell), Lee Dillon (Newbury), Charlotte Cane (Ely and East Cambridgeshire), James MacCleary (Lewes), Gideon Amos (Taunton and Wellington) and Sarah Dyke (Glastonbury and Somerton)

The Liberal Democrats are not convinced by the government’s proposals. While there’s a clear case for increasing taxes on remote online betting, particularly online casino-style games that have been linked to significant harm, we must distinguish between forms of gambling. We support doubling the rate of remote gaming duty to generate substantial revenue, tackle the harms linked to online gaming and provide much-needed investment in the NHS and social care. But horseracing is often deeply connected to rural economies and the cultural life of many communities. It is clear that raising the rate of tax on betting on horseracing could pose real risks to those communities. We believe the government should urgently share their plans on how they can mitigate any risks to the racing community for closer scrutiny.

Liberal Democrats would recognise the distinct place of the horseracing industry by maintaining the separate rate for betting on racing. If the government presses ahead without proper safeguards then there will be clear risks to the industry. The sport already receives less than three per cent of the £13 billion staked on it annually from the Horse Betting Levy, well behind countries like France and Ireland. We have yet to see any detail on how the government plan to address this. It's also disappointing to see the government has missed its own deadline to review the Horserace Betting Levy, which only adds to the uncertainty. Any reforms to gambling tax must go hand in hand with stronger reinvestment into horseracing, ensuring the sport can thrive and continue supporting jobs, training, and investment in rural communities.

British racing is a major employer and cultural asset in the UK. The government needs to properly review the Horserace Betting Levy and ensure that reforms to gambling taxation don’t come at the expense of horseracing. We also support an evidence-led approach to affordability checks that protects vulnerable individuals. Crucially, the government must wake up to the growing financial pressures facing the racing industry. They must work urgently and constructively to secure greater reinvestment from gambling companies into the sports they profit from. The Liberal Democrats will hold the government’s feet to the fire to deliver a fair deal for horseracing, the cornerstone of so many of our communities across the UK.

MPs who did not respond

LABOUR
Elaine Stewart (Ayr, Carrick & Cumnock), Chris Ward (Brighton Kemptown), Markus Campbell-Savours (Penrith & Solway), Catherine Fookes (Monmouth), Samantha Dixon (Chester North & Neston), Dame Nia Griffiths (Llanelli), Imogen Walker (Hamilton & Clyde Valley), Joe Morris (Hexham), Douglas Alexander (East Lothian), Catherine McKinnell (Newcastle Upon Tyne North), Nadia Whittome (Nottingham East), Yvette Cooper (Pontefract, Castleford & Knottingley), Anna Turley (Redcar), Alan Strickland (Newton Aycliffe & Spennymoor), Jacob Collier (Burton & Uttoxeter), Warinder Juss (Wolverhampton West), Tom Collins (Worcester)

CONSERVATIVE
Rishi Sunak (Richmond & Northallerton), Sir Mel Stride (Devon Central), Jerome Mayhew (Broadland & Fakenham), Jesse Norman (Hereford & South Herefordshire), Lincoln Jopp (Spelthorne), Neil O'Brien (Harborough, Oadby & Wigston), Claire Coutinho (East Surrey), Sir Edward Leigh (Gainsborough), Julian Smith (Skipton & Ripon), Robert Jenrick (Newark), Sir Alec Shelbrooke (Wetherby & Easingwold)

SCOTTISH NATIONAL PARTY
Pete Wishart (Perth & Kinross-shire)

INDEPENDENT
Rupert Lowe (Great Yarmouth)

MPs who have recently spoken against the racing tax

Kemi Badenoch (Conservative MP for North West Essex)
Dan Carden (Labour MP for Liverpool Walton)

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Racing TV has created a template letter than can be used to email local MPs about your concerns over the 'racing tax'. Follow this link to access the template – it should not take more than a couple of minutes to complete.