LDP delays Japan casino plans

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has decided not to seek the passage of a bill which aims to legalise casinos in Japan, because coalition partner Komeito remains wary of gambling.

The bill was introduced during last year’s Diet session by the LDP, the Japan Innovation Party and the Party for Future Generations.

However the legislation was moved to this session after the LDP prioritised the passage of national security bills last September.

According to The Japan Times an LPD lawmaker said on Monday: “We’ll give up again for this session."

Another member said: “The problem is whether an accord can be reached between the LDP and Komeito.”

The bill would lift the ban on casino operations and developing casino complexes.

However Komeito fears that this could lead to a rise in gambling addiction.

The LDP’s decision to comply with Komeito comes ahead of the upper house election this summer.

Chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Sugar explained that lifting the ban is “expected to be a big boost for tourism and regional economies”.

The LDP hopes to continue deliberations on the bill if a further session is held this autumn.