Sangsit supports legalising gambling

Chalerm said he had research information ready to implement the PM's idea which he claimed "an international move."

The minister cited countries such as Malaysia which practise strict religion also allows gambling.

He said the governement would carry out public hearings before going ahead with the proposal. Zoning may be needed to limit Thais from gamblings and provide gambling facilities only in tourism-oriented provinces, he added.

Former National Economic and Social Advisory Council vice chairman Sangsit Piriyarangsan supported Samak's proposal to legalise gambling saying it would stop the influx of Bt70 billion annually out of the country.

Sangsit said he conducted indepth research on the issue and found that Thai peole went for gambling in the neighbouring countries and spent between Bt50-70 billion per year there.

He said the country can legalise gambling and limit the number or select groups of people who can gamble such as people who pay certain amount of tax.