Gaming | Committee expresses concerns over casino operator executives’ dual nationality

The question of the backgrounds of managing directors of casino operators under the gaming law amendment was tabled yesterday by the Second Standing Committee.

Led by Chan Chak Mo, the committee is set to question the government on the standards and requirements it has set for casino administrators, such as whether those holding dual nationalities are eligible for such positions.

Speaking yesterday at the committee meeting, Chan was quoted on TDM Radio as saying, “we are going to ask the government what the scope in management power of this delegated administrator is and [their] suitability. There is also the question of nationality: whether or not dual nationality is allowed, since the role of delegated administrator is intended for permanent residents of the MSAR.”

Chan also expressed concerns over the patriotism of senior executives of casino operators.

Last month, in the first reading of the gambling law amendment, most lawmakers were concerned with the termination of “satellite casinos.”

“Satellite casinos” refer to those not located in premises owned by the gambling concessionaire operating the casinos. There are currently 20 of these.

Lawmaker Lei Leong Wong warned the government that they should prepare for the worst, because this matter concerns a workforce of at least 7,000 people. “Counting supporting staff [as well], the figure may reach 15,000,” the lawmaker said out, hinting that the government must handle the problem with extreme care.

In yesterday’s meeting, Chan said that the committee does not know the situation of each satellite casino because some are operating in commercial and residential buildings, while others are installed in hotels. Therefore, they will raise the matter with the government once the bill comes before the Legislative Assembly.