THE DEPUTY leader of Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, which is de facto led by former prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, today (Nov. 18) called for the setting up of legal casinos in Thailand as means of helping the country emerge from an economic downturn, Matichon newspaper said.
Mr. Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, the party’s deputy leader and party-list MP, said it is necessary for all sectors to work together and stimulate the economy by finding additional sources of income.
As Thailand is a popular tourist destination, steps should be taken to proactively develop entertainment venues, he said, adding that at present illegal casinos have led to loss of large amounts of income.
Upon being asked that the idea of legally opening casinos has been suggested many times but never approved, Thanakorn said he would like the House of Representatives to set up an extraordinary committee to study the establishment of a comprehensive entertainment complex to promote the national economy.
Strict criteria should be worked out limiting the issuance of casino licences and levying taxes with foreigners permitted full access while Thais wanting to enter having to show that they have sufficient income to gamble and no debts.
This will help solve the problem of illegal casinos with officials getting kickbacks while also leading to social and economic problems, he added.
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Top: A casino in Las Vegas. Photo: Andreas Volz from Pixabay
Front Page: Ruam Thai Sang Chart deputy leader Thanakorn Wangboonkhongchana. Photo: Matichon
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