SA:Pokie reform push gains strength

AAP General News (Australia)
02-02-2011
SA:Pokie reform push gains strength

Independent MP ANDREW WILKIE has accused elements within club and hotel groups of pedalling
lies about the impact that tougher controls on gaming machines would have on problem gambling.

The campaign against gaming machines .. which experts have linked to problem gambling
.. follows legal advice that the federal government has the power to force reforms on
poker machine gambling .. including technology to have all punters set betting limits.

Community Services Minister JENNY MACKLIN says the country now needs a national agreement
to address the serious problem that ruins lives and families.

A parliamentary joint select committee on gambling reform began hearings in Adelaide
yesterday .. and more hearings are planned in Melbourne .. Brisbane and Sydney later this
week.

AAP RTV tjd/wz

KEYWORD: POKIES (ADELAIDE)

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