The Methodist Church is worried about what it says is lack of clarity over how many regional casinos will be developed when gambling deregulation is implemented, expected next summer.
It says there have been scores of applications for licences even before the Gambling Bill has been passed.
The British Amusement and Catering Trade Association says allowing regional casinos and so-called category A slot machines, which will offer potentially unlimited payouts in town centres, will destroy the existing UK gaming industry and increase problem gambling.
References: Financial Times 30/09/04 page 6
