Tuesday, 4 March 2008

Interior Minister backs legalised casinos

(BangkokPost.com) - Interior Minister Chalerm Yubamrung expressed his support for Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's idea of legalising casinos in Thailand.

Mr Chalerm used neighbouring countries including Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia as examples, saying that they all benefit greatly in tourism.

However, he said it is highly likely that only foreigners are allowed to gamble.

"In principle, Thais should not be allowed to gamble," he told reporters prior to joining weekly cabinet meeting. "We will study this matter from other countries."

Prime Minister's Office Minister Jakrapob Penkair, meanwhile, downplayed the issue.

He said this is an important matter and the government will listen to opinions from all parties before reaching any decisions.

"We would like to hear views of different parties first," he said. "We cannot think only of the economic. We have to think also in term of culture. And we will not proceed with this unless people agree with us."

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