| Gaming-News > Archive > 2006 > June |
29 Jun 2006
As the United Kingdom’s Gambling Commission prepares for the full implementation of all policies covered by the Gambling Act 2005, social groups continue to express concern that the new laws will exacerbate gambling addiction. Among their greatest fears is the introduction of super-casinos to Britain.
The issue of UK super-casinos is not new in the debate. Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell has previously said that UK super-casinos will differ substantially from their American counterparts. The UK government intends to draft specific legislation making it illegal for casinos to tempt gambling fans unfairly or place them under unnecessary duress. Several American casinos have been criticised in the past for their policies of removing clocks from walls and denying gambling fans access to natural light. Some gambling establishments also offer free accommodation, food and drink to encourage casino players to stay longer.
Jowell, along with the British Casino Association, has sought to allay fears over a “UK Las Vegas” by stating that the UK gambling industry is one of the most respected and trustworthy in the world. She also pointed out that the UK has one of the lowest levels of problem gambling. Eight super-casinos are scheduled to join the UK gambling market by 2010.
As the United Kingdom’s Gambling Commission prepares for the full implementation of all policies covered by the Gambling Act 2005, social groups continue to express concern that the new laws will exacerbate gambling addiction. Among their greatest fears is the introduction of super-casinos to Britain.
The issue of UK super-casinos is not new in the debate. Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell has previously said that UK super-casinos will differ substantially from their American counterparts. The UK government intends to draft specific legislation making it illegal for casinos to tempt gambling fans unfairly or place them under unnecessary duress. Several American casinos have been criticised in the past for their policies of removing clocks from walls and denying gambling fans access to natural light. Some gambling establishments also offer free accommodation, food and drink to encourage casino players to stay longer.
Jowell, along with the British Casino Association, has sought to allay fears over a “UK Las Vegas” by stating that the UK gambling industry is one of the most respected and trustworthy in the world. She also pointed out that the UK has one of the lowest levels of problem gambling. Eight super-casinos are scheduled to join the UK gambling market by 2010.
