Edmund Ho Reaffirms Opening of Gaming IndustryEdmund Ho Hau Wah, chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), made a definite affirmation November 9 that the SAR government will open local gaming industry resolutely."Although there are not many words about the opening of gaming industry in my policy address, the SAR government holds a firm stance on opening the (franchise) operation of gaming industry," he told the media after delivering his policy address for 2001. In the meantime, the chief executive noted that the most important thing is that government revenue from the gaming sector is ensured. According to the contract between the former Portuguese Macao government and the Macao Tourism and Amusement Company (STDM), the latter runs franchise casino business in Macao till the end of 2001. "Our police forces are well prepared not to allow actions which impede the opening," Edmund Ho said, dispelling the concern that the opening may cause public security problems. The chief executive said in the policy address that the SAR government, with the assistance of a consulting company, is conducting research on a scheme which is most conducive to the opening of gaming industry and overall social development. |
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