[Greens-Media] NSW Coalition fails to close important live odds loophole

[John Kaye]

NSW Coalition fails to close important live odds loophole

Media release: 27 May 2013

Greens NSW MP John Kaye accused the O'Farrell government of double
standards on the broadcast of sports betting odds.

Dr Kaye said: "The NSW government could close a major loophole in the Prime
Minister's plan by stopping sporting venues displaying odds on the large
screens at football games.

"Despite NSW Coalition ministers joining the chorus of criticism of the
Gillard government's failure to ban gambling advertising during sporting
events, Premier Barry O'Farrell continues to allow  the display of live
odds on large screens at sports stadiums.

"It is within the power of the state government to prevent any gambling
advertising, including live odds, being thrust onto football fans at NSW
venues and, through television coverage of the game, onto screens in homes
around Australia.

"Criticism of Prime Minister Julia Gillard is easy, but it seems that for
NSW Gaming Minister George Souris action to reduce problem gambling is
beyond his reach.

"While Minister Souris is correctly pointing out the failings of the
Gillard government's package, he is busy pushing multi-terminal gaming
machines into small registered clubs across NSW.

"If he were serious about reducing the damage done by gambling, he would
stop local clubs becoming mini-casinos and he would introduce legislation
to ban on live odds being displayed at sporting events," Dr Kaye said.

For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455

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John Kaye
Greens NSW MP
phone: 0407 195 455
web: www.john.nsw.greens.org.au
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