The UK Government's plans to introduce 17 new casinos, including one regional casino development in Manchester, were thrown into chaos last night after a House of Lords vote decided against the measures.
Culture Minister Tessa Jowell had claimed that the ‘all or nothing’ plans would leave no room for compromise, but may now have to separate the regional casino from the large and small developments on order to progress. Jowell also admitted that there was no ‘plan B’ should the proposal be thrown out.
The Lords voted by 123 votes to 120 against, while a later vote in the Commons backed the plans. The Lords vote, however, is far more influential in deciding on policy matters.
Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce chief executive Angie Robinson called the decision "absolutely outrageous."
"This is complete madness and we are bitterly disappointed," she said. "The super-casino would have brought much-needed jobs and investment to one of the most deprived areas in the country."
Sports minister Richard Caborn was adamant, however, an order allowing the 16 smaller casinos to go ahead could "could go forward tomorrow" with opposition support, but admitted that the regional casino issue was uncertain.
Sir Richard Leese, the Labour leader of Manchester City Council, tried to put a positive spin on the decision, claiming that it was a half-victory. "It’s certainly not an end to this project," he told the BBC.
"We had a clear majority in the elected chamber. In the House of Commons MPs have made it quite clear that they want this to go ahead. "I’m now confident that by working with ministers, working with the House of Commons, we can make sure this is delivered."
