Simpson Calls on Premier to Address Apparent Conflict in Gaming Ministry

VICTORIAShane Simpson, New Democrat critic for housing and social development, has sent a letter to Premier Gordon Campbell calling on him to remove the Gaming Policy Enforcement Branch from the Ministry of Housing and Social Development and place it in the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. Shane Simpson

“Removing gaming enforcement from the Ministry responsible for promoting gambling would remove any apparent conflict of interest. It’s clear that the current situation is not working,” said Simpson.

“The Minister of Housing and Social Development has been unable to restore public confidence in the B.C. Lotteries Corporation. Now it’s up to the premier to take action.”

Simpson said the premier must address the crisis of public confidence, calling on him to resolve the conflict that arises due to gambling promotion and enforcement being housed within the same ministry.

“Despite the chaos at the B.C. Lottery Corporation, the B.C. Liberal government has failed to address systemic problems in the BCLC that are now undermining the public interest,” said Simpson.

The Carole James New Democrats are working with British Columbians from all walks of life, all corners of B.C., and all sectors of our economy to build a better British Columbia for the people of this province.

See Simpson’s letter below.