Duty Manager Mr Alan Gamban invited him to visit the club yesterday evening before presenting Mr Hayes with some indicative figures on how the new tax regime is causing financial hardship in particular to the smaller community based bingo clubs.

During the visit Mr Hayes developed a fondness for the bingo club and was very keen to represent the cause in the Houses of Commons. John Hayes will write to the Secretary to the Treasury and ask for an explanation to why bingo has to pay more tax than any other form of commercial gaming.

The management of Regent Bingo Club have also asked Mr Hayes to confirm the party policy for bingo tax and if the party would have any intentions of redressing the tax issue if they were voted into power on the next election. Mr Hayes stated that he felt the Labour Government did not intend on raising taxes for bingo clubs and have inadvertently caused problems for the smaller independents but at the same time do not want to admit they are wrong and will not go back.

Mr John Hayes said repeatedly "I totally get it, bingo is an extremely important social function and should be preserved". He also agreed with the management that a reduction in bingo tax would increase investment into bingo clubs and the treasury would reap the rewards from increased employment and participation.

The big question was reiterated "Why is the softest form of gaming in the UK taxed at the highest rate?" Mr Hayes replied "I agree, allow me to take this up with the treasury and I will also ask more questions when I am on the Commons floor."

It is still hoped that the bingo industry will get the present Government to change their mind on this new bingo duty, if not the industry does need to come up with a plan B and will look for cross party support. The Liberal Democrats are fully backing bingo and many of the votes for the amendments in the Finance Bill were by the Liberal Democrats. Most conservatives abstained from voting whilst Labour party whips were out to ensure that the amendments did not get passed.

Meanwhile the Treasury have said they remain in constant dialogue with the bingo industry and will give further considerations on the pre budget report.