Thai authorities set up sub-committees to discuss gambling legalisation

The special committee that’s studying the possibility of legalising the development of integrated resorts in Thailand set up five sub-committees.

Thailand.- Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) member and House Committee speaker Phada Worakanont has said that an extraordinary House Committee has created five sub-committees to study the legalisation of casinos in Thailand. One of the sub-committees is responsible for researching relevant laws, tax collection and administration. 

The second sub-committee will look at potential locations for integrated resorts and will study the criteria and conditions. The three other sub-committees will focus on forms of investment, the nature of the gaming business, and how to prevent any possible negative effects it may have.

According to Bangkok Post, the appointment of members of the subcommittees will be submitted to the chairman of the parliament, Chuan Leekpai, for approval. The chairman reportedly hopes to encourage broad public participation in the discussion by inviting representatives of the public, students and various organisations to serve as committee advisors.

A 60-member special committee is studying the possibility of allowing integrated resorts with the aim of ​​attracting foreign tourists. It includes 15 representatives from the Thai cabinet and 45 members from various political parties across the country. The team is expected to complete its research within 90 days.

For now, gambling is illegal in Thailand other than through state lotteries and horseracing through the Bangkok Turf Club. Nonetheless, illegal gambling is widespread. 

Poll finds most Thai residents against legalisation of gambling

The National Institute of Development Administration has reported that the majority of Thai citizens would be against the move. In a poll, 56.83 per cent of residents said they were against legalising gambling. Respondents cited fears that gambling could cause family conflicts, debt problems, and crime. Some said casinos shouldn’t be allowed because Thailand is a Buddhist country. 

On the other hand, 21.25 per cent were in favour of developing integrated resorts in the country to collect taxes and avoid residents going abroad to gamble. Some 18.13 per cent said casinos would help stimulate the country’s economy.