Wales to close gaming venues from Friday

Wales will implement a short “firebreak” lockdown until November 9.

UK.- As various regions in the UK reintroduce different degrees of lockdown measures to tackle rising numbers of Covid-19 cases, Wales has declared a complete lockdown from October 23 until November 9.

Casinos, betting shops and gaming arcades will be forced to close under the short “firebreak” lockdown, which will begin from 6pm on Friday and will replace existing local restrictions.

People will not be allowed to meet with members of other households and face coverings will have to be worn in all indoor public spaces.

The Welsh government will provide almost £300m to support businesses in addition to wage-support schemes available from the UK government.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “This is the moment to come together; to play our part in a common endeavour to protect the NHS and save lives. This will not be easy, but we will do it together.”

Welsh casinos were already closed from mid-March until August 29. The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has called for targeted support for the gaming industry.

It said on Twitter: “The BGC is urging the government to come up with the necessary package of financial support for businesses affected, including 366 betting shops and three casinos employing 2,000 people between them.”

The BGC has strongly criticised new closures of casinos and gaming venues across the UK.

Public Health Wales recorded 4,127 new cases of Covid-19 between October 9 and 15.