SNP calls for gambling legal move

Mr MacAskill said the plans will lead to a rise in gambling addicts

Nationalists have called for powers over gambling in Scotland to be devolved to guard against Westminster deregulation of the industry.

Justice spokesman Kenny MacAskill said the possibility of super casinos being opened would lead to a "huge rise" in gambling addiction.

The MSP said the Scottish Executive was "powerless" to stop the plans.

However, a Scottish Executive spokesman insisted that the proposals would give ministers more power.

A backbench rebellion against plans to overhaul gambling law failed on Tuesday, however the UK Government's majority was reduced.

Scottish ministers will have more say over the regulations covering all aspects of gaming premises Scottish Executive spokesman

MPs approved by 286 votes to 212 the second reading of the Gambling Bill, which proposes tighter regulations but allows for the opening of super casinos.

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell has insisted that the law would protect the "weak and the vulnerable" but the SNP has voiced concern.

Mr MacAskill said: "This Westminster legislation loads the dice against Scotland, threatening to turn large swathes of our country into little more than Las Vegas style casino strips.

"It does not take a genius to work out that more and bigger casinos together with unlimited jackpots will lead to a rise in gambling addiction.

'Protect children'

"With all Scotland's existing social problems, from knife crime to alcoholism, this is the last thing we need."

He said all powers over gambling should be devolved to Scotland.

A Scottish Executive spokesman said: "Scottish ministers support the UK Government's policy to modernise the law and increase choice for the consumer in a context that seeks to protect children and the vulnerable and prevent an upsurge in problem gambling.

"Currently Scottish ministers only regulate casinos and bingo halls - but under the new proposals they will regulate all gaming and betting premises, including betting shops and all gaming centres.

"So Scottish ministers will have more say over the regulations covering all aspects of gaming premises - they can set fees, and impose very strict regulations on the permits."