To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment his Department has made of the change in the number of gaming machines manufactured in the UK over the last five years; and if he will make a statement. (77152)

I have been asked to reply.

My officials and I have regular discussions with the key trade bodies representing, and companies from, the gaming machine manufacturing sector.

These discussions provide the opportunity for the Department to gain a good understanding of the gaming machine industry and the issues it is facing. I will shortly be undertaking a fresh round of meetings with the industry.