Gambling Revolt Halves Blair's Majority

By James Lyons, Political Correspondent, PA News Tony Blair saw his majority cut in half tonight as dozens of Labour MPs rebelled over reforms allowing US-style super casinos. Many more backbenchers stayed away from the Commons vote which represented an unexpectedly large protest over the shake-up. The Gambling Bill was passed by just 286 to 212, a majority of 74, at the end of an impassioned six and-a-half-hour debate. Some of those who backed the Prime Minister did so hoping that fresh concessions would be given at the next Parliamentary stage. Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell promised to listen to constructive calls for changes as she suffered a Commons mauling. Ms Jowell had already admitted surprise over the “level of fury” directed at the new laws she insists will protect the “weak and the vulnerable” through better regulation. However Labour critics were unconvinced, arguing there was no need to remove restrictions on casinos and introduce limitless slot-machine jackpots.