UK pubs can act as bookmakers under controversial new laws
There is certainly no shortage of critics of new planning laws that will allow bookmakers to set up shop in British pubs in what has been described as a "free for all" on Britain's high streets.
Pub as bookmaker
The new planning laws will initially be introduced for a two-year period, giving shops the right to convert into bookmakers without the need for planning permission.
Supporters of the new measures say the idea behind changes to planning laws is to allow potential operators to fill vacant shop spaces and establish new businesses without having to obtain permission to change the use of the property. If you walk down any high street in the UK you will notice that the recession of the past few years has certainly left a lot of empty shops that need to be filled.
Bad news for some
Opponents of the idea warn that Britain's streets could be crowded with bookmakers and moneylenders, sure to conjure up images of a repressed modern Britain. They also strongly suggested that a dramatic increase in bookmakers across the UK could lead to a devastating rise in problem gambling across the country and ultimately exacerbate the debilitating decline of established Blighty.
Hilary Benn MP said: “I am deeply concerned that the government’s plans could lead to an increase in problem gambling.” She added that it was “reckless at any time but not at this time of crisis when we are in crisis” Forgiven. "Standards when family income is tight."
Will the new relaxed laws be abused?
British tabloid The Daily Mail reported that these new planning laws could be used to move betting shops into pubs to circumvent laws banning the sale of alcohol in betting shops, if the venue is set up correctly.
The document states that the building would simply need to be divided into two parts, with separate main entrances on each side and a door to separate the games area from the public bar. If a pub decides to try this, the new law appears to provide that there is no reason why a legal gambling license cannot be obtained.
This creates the possibility of serious misjudgment by drunk players. Although the transition to new planning laws has been described as an attempt to increase footfall on Britain's streets, it is easier to think that politicians are more likely to be gearing up, eagerly awaiting future extra tax revenue as they aim to increase tax revenue. Pockets deepen and become empty.
Forget the question: "Would you like chips with that?" Soon, Britain's biggest selling point may be: "Want to bet?"
Read also:
- Couple found guilty in New Zealand roulette scam
- Internet users are increasingly turning to mobile devices for gambling (and everything else).
- The online poker rivalry between Stations Casinos and Caesars Interactive is like a boxing match
- Universities and private companies provide training for Massachusetts casino jobs
Source: www.casino.org
