MP AND LOCAL CAMPAIGNERS CELEBRATE GOVERNMENT'S CHANGES TO GAMBLING REFORM PLANS

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 16th Jun 2004

Sue Doughty MP has welcomed the Government's response to the report of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on the Draft Gambling Bill. The Government has accepted nearly all of the Committee's recommendations, which were largely focused on increasing protection for children and vulnerable adults and preventing the growth of problem gambling alongside the proposed reforms. Stricter controls on casino developments have also been announced.

Sue said:

"The Government's response shows that they have listened to those of us who have warned that a more cautious approach is needed than was proposed in the draft bill. They have agreed to many changes that will help put social responsibility more firmly at the centre of the bill."

Campaigners from Guildford churches contacted Sue Doughty MP asking her help in raising their concerns with the Government over the negative social impact that the proposals in the draft bill would have, especially if they were to result in a local proliferation of casinos. Sue met with Jennifer Hogg, Associate Warden of St Saviour's Church, Guildford, to discus these concerns. This resulted in her tabling a series of parliamentary questions that exposed shortcomings in the Government's approach to problem gambling.

Jennifer Hogg said:

"I am delighted with the improvements and additional safeguards. We will continue to campaign for further improvements where concerns remain when the redrafted bill comes before parliament.

"The new power for local authorities to veto casino developments in their area is excellent news for ordinary people in Guildford who are very concerned about the impact casinos will have on our community."