The Bingo Association has launched a UK-wide petition as part of a campaign that will urge government to rethink its treatment of the industry.

The campaign, entitled 'Stop destroying my bingo', has been launched by clubs and players.

Stakeholder response: Bingo Association

A spokesperson for the Bingo Association said: "The UK Bingo industry is this week facing crisis, as the effects of government policies are set to place up to 200 bingo clubs under threat of closure.

The bingo industry is feeling the strain under heavy taxation, as the only sector of the gambling industry to pay VAT, while facing increased operating costs under new legislation and the negative impact of the forthcoming ban on smoking in England and Wales. More than 50 per cent of bingo customers are either smokers or attend with a smoker."

The Bingo Association is launching a UK-wide petition. Click here for more information.

Personal response: David L Gardner

"The ban on smoking was the will of Parliament and people across all parties. It is wrong to say it is the impact of government policy. It will mean a short-term knock, but patronage will recover as it will for pubs as people adapt and new customers take advantage of a smoke-free atmosphere.

"There is a case to ensue a more level playing field on the taxation of gambling, but the grumble about over-regulation without any specific proposals for lightening the compliance burden while balancing the interests of customers, employees with that of the business. I tend to think the industry doth protest too much and that there are wider cultural and social changes at play that are reducing the footfall."