Wednesday 11 July 2007

All Bets Are Off


Early days for the Brown premiership, but I am already liking what I see.

The Blairite obsession with opening up gambling in the UK was always one I found disturbing. There was never any evidence, of course, but the suspicion was always there that money might have passed hands between US casino giants and politicians, or their stooges, to help sweeten the process.

The news today that Brown has turned his back on the deal to open up US-style super-casinos here in Britain has got to be good. I never bought that specious argument about how they'd bring growth, jobs and prosperity to our run-down inner-city areas. More likely, they'd bring in their train a focus for criminals, greater indebtedness and increased gambling addiction to areas of our country that need that like a hole in the head.

Hats off, then, to the new PM. Keep going as you are, and you may even tempt old Bill to vote Labour.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

As this is the only paper I read, this is all news to me and I'm with him and you all the way.
I wouldn't mind betting that others feel the same..........but where can I? Don't worry, I'll sort it out.

Crofty said...

'Right on brother Blunt', as I believe they ought to be, but probably won't be, saying at Beswick Labour Club.

Anonymous said...

Yes, Crofty - they'll be gnashing their teeth over there, I am sure...

MoonDanzer said...

I do believe I am liking this new PM of yours more and more everyday. Yes it's true the state of Nevada does quite well as a wide open gambling state. And, everyday here in the US as you well know...another state opens up for gambling. It does generate a lot of jobs. But, it also does bring in...well let's say...some unsavory folks also. Of course here in Oklahoma the Indians run the casinos and they do a nice job. But, still when the Gov. checks roll in every month...the casinos are full...living on SS and welfare and hitting the casinos..what can one say? I think you said it! Nice post today sir. ~jackie

Randompom aka AEIB said...

So what do you think they will do now with that old run down (I hate to say no hoper) part of Manchester ...... MCC must be running around in panic.. no I take that back, the area is in walking distance from town so a 'Prime real estate' opportunity .. mega bucksville (as if we need more inner city living?)

Anonymous said...

Here, here. You Brits can always come over to Las Vegas or Atlantic City. With temptation this far away, you won't be visiting often. Unless you stike it rich. Hope we all stike it rich!

Knock, knock…Who's there?…It is I …I who?…I see you but you don't see me.

You see Bill, this is a perfect example of why I am not a comedian.