States ‘wrong to bar a casino’

Tuesday 18th April 2006, 12:00AM BST.

THE casino and bingo debate is back on the table.

A year after States Members rejected proposals to allow a casino and bingo halls to open, Assistant Economic Development Minister Alan Maclean says he wants a fresh look at the issue.

When the States rejected proposals for a casino last year they supported plans for a gambling commission and online gaming legislation.

Deputy Maclean says the commission – which will come at no extra cost to the States – should look again at the effect a casino would have.

He wants public consultation and specialist market research on the subject, and has invited a scrutiny review.

‘It is clear that the issue was not understood by the States 12 months ago, otherwise there would not now be the inconsistency of allowing online gambling yet ruling out a casino,’ he said.

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