Casino News

Purnell refuses to give answers about supercasino

2007-09-25 15:30:44

The culture secretary is remaining tight-lipped about the future of the proposed supercasino in east Manchester.

James Purnell has refused to say whether he still supports the idea of Las Vegas-style gambling in the city.

While Mr Purnell voted in favour of Manchester's bid earlier this year, there is some speculation that his department is behind anti-casino briefings, reports the Manchester Evening News.

But when asked three times by the newspaper whether he still supports the supercasino, he refused to give a straight answer.

"The government has indicated we are looking at regeneration in that part of Manchester and seeing what the best approach is," he said.

Manchester City Council, which has refused to give up on the idea of a supercasino because of its investment potential, recently commissioned a study that said a large gaming establishment would not lead to a rise in problem gambling.