Gambling is an ordinary pastime for many Hong Kong people who seem to be drawn by the excitement it brings. Nonetheless, gambling is illegal in Hong Kong unless made lawful by the Hong Kong Gambling Ordinance. Under the ordinance it is a criminal offence to gamble in a gambling establishment. Likewise, operating and managing a gambling establishment is criminal. The idea of constructing a Las Vegas-style casino on Lantau Island has given rise to much controversy in the past decade. But due to the recent economic recession, this issue has once again become a topic for debate. Economists say by the imposition of taxes on casinos, the Government could raise a handsome revenue, just as it does with the Jockey Club. Hence, more socially beneficial projects could be carried out. Moreover, the gross domestic product (GDP) of Hong Kong would be improved. In Macau, the gambling industry represents over 40 per cent of the enclave's GDP. Since local people no longer need to spend their money on gambling in overseas casinos, what is spent in the casino will contribute to our GDP directly. Furthermore, it will add another tourist attraction. The contrary view is that this money is only obtained at the expense of an increasing crime rate. Serious crimes and social instability in Macau recently il lustrate this. Hong Kong may gradually develop into a 'hub of crimes' where people live in fear. Also, it has to be considered whether there is effective control of crime. Despite most organised forms of gambling being an offence, it seems the existing law lacks a deterrent effect. This is illustrated by the existence of a large number of illegal underground casinos in Hong Kong. Hence, concentrating gambling activities at a particular licensed casino may make it easier for the police to control, detect and fight crime. Nevertheless, some psychologists argue the establishment of legalised casinos hurts soci ety in the long run. Gambling has long been denounced as a social evil and is often associated with crime and family tragedies. People might become 'addicted' and fall into the debt. To get money to gamble, crimes might be committed. However, thousands of jobs could be created by a legal casino and this would not be bad news for the unemployed. Yet a casino might deter potential investors since some venues are regarded as a potential source of crime. The debate seems endless. But what is certain is that the controversy will arouse further public concern. Ms Law is a second year law student at the University of Hong Kong
