Critics fear a rise in the number of problem gamblers

MPs conducting a detailed scrutiny of the Gambling Bill were supposed to be looking at the clause dealing with super casinos on Thursday.

Now that has been put back until next Tuesday, the Culture Department said.

"We delayed it because we are still reflecting on the... concerns that have been raised," said a spokesman.

Retreat?

That prompted the Conservatives, who want a cap on the number of casinos allowed, to say the government appeared to be heading for a climbdown.

"We welcome the fact that it appears the Government is preparing for a climb-down," said shadow culture secretary John Whittingdale.

"The government have had three years to get this Bill right. Today's emergency postponement of consideration of crucial provisions relating to casinos shows the chaos that the government's policy is now in."

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell came under fire from MPs on all sides of the House - including many Labour backbenchers - when the bill was given its Commons second reading earlier this month.

Tough regime?

She later told the BBC: "If what members of Parliament want to see is a more gradual approach then of course we will consider that. I will take very seriously constructive proposals for improving this bill.

"It's perfectly possible also that investors will find our regulatory regime just too tough because our over-riding concern will be protection of the public and protection of the vulnerable and children."

Critics have argued the bill, which will allow the super casinos with up to 1,250 slot machines offering unlimited prizes, could lead to a rise in the levels of gambling addiction in the UK.

They also fear it could lure more dangerous criminals into the British gambling industry.

GAMBLING BILL Casinos open 24 hours Immediate access for public, no 24-hour joining period Unlimited jackpots in largest casinos Betting allowed on Good Friday and Christmas Day A new criminal offence of inviting, permitting or causing a child to gamble Compulsory age checks by gambling websites operating from the UK Mystery shopper surveys by the Gambling Commission to check rules followed Tighter restrictions on betting exchanges Allowing casinos to advertise for first time

Ms Jowell has said new rules were needed to modernise the system of regulation.

"Almost every week new games, new forms of technology are making gambling more available to a wide range of people," she said.

She said she understood that many people had "great concerns" about gambling and its potential impact, but that the bill balanced respect for personal freedom with the need to protect those at risk.

"Problem gambling will rise if we don't secure this bill and the protections it includes," she said.