The Opposition United Bermuda Party says it is not in favour of gaming as proposed by Government and hinted that a referendum should be held on whether gambling is allowed on the Island.

UBP leader Kim Swan this afternoon released a statement setting out the party’s platform on the issue, which is due to be debated on Friday when MPs discuss the Green Paper on gaming in the House of Assembly.

Mr. Swan said in his statement: “Our caucus has carefully considered the pros and cons of gaming in Bermuda after reviewing the PLP Government's Green Paper on the subject, holding public meetings and talking with people on doorsteps across the Island. Our position is that we do not believe gaming as pushed by the PLP Government is in the best interests of Bermuda or its people.

“We appreciate the difficult financial position the hotel industry is in — and have spoken many times of actions needed to help hotels — but even the strongest supporters recognize that casino gambling is not a panacea for the challenges facing the industry. Much hard work needs to be done to improve tourism in Bermuda and we will be happy to work with the hospitality sector to do whatever is necessary to restore it to health. This must be the focus.

“But we do not believe the small potential benefits of gambling cited by the Government out-weigh the substantial risks to the social fabric and the economic integrity of our Island.

“Nonetheless, our members will be listening and participating in the debate on the Green Paper as members voice their views. The Green Paper is, after all, a discussion paper. Government then sets out its position in a White Paper, which follows after a reasonable period of reflection and consideration of the widespread discussion this exercise produces, taking into account the various views expressed.

“This is a national issue and our position, ultimately, is that it should be decided by the entire community. The one way people can truly participate is by way of a referendum. Holding referenda on matters of national importance is a fundamental plank in our platform of better governance for Bermuda.”

* Full story in tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.