Hundreds of adult gaming centres in England have bingo licences that still qualify them for discounted business rates Hundreds of high street “ slot farms ” could continue claiming a discount on their business rates, unless the government closes a loophole that allows them to pose as bingo halls. John Healey singled out adult gaming centres (AGCs) in his first budget this week, in which he increased duty on slot machine takings from 20% to 25%, claiming he was “raising taxes on gambling to support good growth on every high street”. Continue reading...
High street ‘slot farms’ could avoid budget tax rise through bingo hall loophole

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Fashion and tradition: how John Smedley is innovating in a tough market
In the final article in a series on high-end British manufacturing we look at a clothing brand that dates to the 18th century but is increasingly on-trend Making jeans again: the Hiut Denim factory in Cardigan Rolls-Royce rides high on craze for customisation Luxury leather: from wallets to cigar cases Tina is wielding a large pair of scissors with authority, slicing with immense skill and precision. With 38 years of experience, she is an important member of the 230-strong manufacturing team producing fine knitwear for the John Smedley brand. Using a chalk, a semi-circular guide and a sharp pair of scissors, she cuts necklines in the knitted garments ready for the final trim to be attached. Continue reading...