Tuesday 19 Feb 2002
The Responsible Gaming Bill introduced by the Government is a further example of this Government trying to control New
Zealanders' leisure habits, ACT Internal Affairs Spokesman MP Penny Webster said today.
"The Labour Government seems to think it can regulate to remove freedom, choice and personal responsibility from every
facet of New Zealand life. This legislation is yet more meddling in our lives.
"The Bill will result in some local councils dotting gaming machines all over the place, while others - hijacked by the
Greens and Alliance - will ban them altogether. It is allowing Councils to be captured by a small anti-business
minority.
"Preventing existing casinos from expanding is not necessary. We are now going to have the bizarre situation where
Queenstown has two casinos, but Wellington can't even have one - and some regions will lose opportunities in tourism and
regional development.
"Labour is legislating against business and innovation, and pandering to a vocal minority of extremists," Mrs Webster
said.
ENDS