Pros and cons of casinos in the UK

ARGUMENTS FOR:

• It is not up to the 'nanny state' to, protect the population from its weaknesses. We don't ban pubs because a few people are alcoholics.

• Taxes raised from gambling make a vital contribution to the national Exchequer. Unlike most taxes, these are 'voluntary' - paid only by those who choose to play.

• If Britain doesn't offer gaming opportunities at home, people will simply go elsewhere. Thousands visit Las Vegas each year.

• There is nothing 'wrong' with gambling. A flutter is a legitimate way of relaxing. We all put a pound or two on the Grand National.

• New casinos are 'democratic'. The wealthy and aristocratic have always been able to gamble in exclusive clubs. Why not let ordinary people enjoy the same freedom?

ARGUMENTS AGAINST:

• The proposed new casinos will inevitably promote a catastrophic surge in gaming, thus dragging into 'addiction' many further thousands of vulnerable potential addicts.

• Damage done to individuals and families by gambling addiction is tragic. We are starting to understand that gambling is uniquely pernicious. Lives are ruined; everything possible should be done to discourage such a dangerous habit.

• There are many outlets already (some would argue too many) for people who like to bet - from betting shops on high streets to the National Lottery and the football pools.

• Gaming is morally wrong and saps ambition. When Americans think of getting rich, their minds turn to hard work. Too many Britons sit on sofas dreaming of big wins.

• The average Joe is ignorant of odds. Few who buy National Lottery tickets realise that they have a greater likelihood of being murdered than of winning the jackpot.

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