Gambling News by Gambling Headquarters

A SHAKE-UP of gambling laws could increase problem gambling, the government minister in charge of the issue has conceded. The Gambling Act, which was passed last year, relaxes some restrictions on the industry. For the first time, Las Vegas-style `supercasinos' will be allowed in Britain. A decision on the site of the first is due in the next week. It is increasingly seen as a two-horse race between the favourites - Blackpool and the Millennium Dome in London - but Manchester is one of seven towns and cities still in the running. Its bid includes not only a casino with 1,000 unlimited-jackpot slot machines, but also a multi-purpose arena, hotel and swimming pool. Critics remain unimpressed however, and claim the vulnerable will be hit hard by the decision. Asked whether the legislation could lead to a rise in problem gambling, Richard Caborn said: "Absolutely." But he insisted: "If there were increases, we would be able to arrest that." But Conservative spokesman Hugo Swire said it was a `staggering' admission that contradicted assurances given by Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell. He said: "It also completely undermines the supposed aims of their gambling legislation." He said the Gambling Commission had approved 90 new casinos in Britain in the last two years - equal to 10 `supercasinos'. Mr Swire said it was evidence of a `casino con trick' by ministers, after the number of actual supercasinos initially allowed was restricted to just one. Ms Jowell has insisted the Act provides `the most protective legislation in the world'. She said she would move to shut down casinos if it was shown that they were increasing problem gambling.