Gambling law unveiled for UK

Gambling law shake-up is unveiled

The UK government unveiled the controversial Gambling Bill yesterday.

Many of the restrictions on gambling would be swept away with the long-awaited Gambling Bill paving the way for new casinos across the UK published by the government.

The new law, if approved by Parliament, will allow casinos with up to 1,250 slot machines and unlimited jackpots.

It would ban slot machines from fast food outlets and minicab offices, restrict internet gaming and introduce a new industry regulator.

Only one area in the UK will, initially, be chosen as the test location for the 'Super Casino' with Glasgow, Midlothian and West Dumbartonshire being the only councils to have applied in Scotland.

Opposition

Opponents, including the Salvation Army, say the bill will lead to an explosion in problem gambling.

Scotland

There are three consortiums in Scotland, ready to apply if any of the councils in Scotland were the chosen 'pilot' location.

Wider considerations

There is to be another 16 casino developments to be granted although not on the scale as the Super Casino.

Falkirk Council is just one of the councils in Scotland who have applied.