Fresh findings of two opinion polls may deal a blow to a proposal seeking to make gambling legal and enabling the government to collect a tax on casinos.
The results of the Suan Dusit Poll and Nida Poll surveys released yesterday show the majority of respondents disagree with legalising casinos due to concerns there are more risks than benefits.
Of the 1,363 people surveyed by Suan Dusit Poll during June 16-20, 45.1% of respondents said they were against the proposal.
Gambling addiction, debts, corruption and a rising crime rate were among their concerns.
The 38.6% of those respondents who favour legalising gambling said it can generate funds for development projects and create jobs.
The remaining 16.1% were undecided and said the issue needs more study.