No new lottery product, says GLO
>> The proposed amendment to the 1974 lottery law is not designed to justify the launch of a new lottery product but to update legislation which has been in use for over 40 years, a seminar was told.
Thanawat Pholvichai, spokesman for the Government Lottery Office (GLO), said the amendment draft covers several elements that will ensure the GLO serves the public interest.
The amendment touches on the GLO board’s composition and authority, the spending of lottery revenue and penalties for those who sell overpriced tickets, he said.
While admitting the amendment draft seeks to allow prizes to be rolled out to accommodate a new type of lottery, he said it does not mean a new product will be introduced.
Concerns have been raised about the GLO’s plan for a new lottery scheme where prizes will be rolled over to two subsequent draws if no winner steps forward, with the jackpot hitting 600 million baht if ticket sales pass 1 billion baht.
However, the current GLO law must be amended to pave the way for the rollover of prizes.
The proposed amendment has sparked criticism from anti-gambling advocates who believe it would clear the way for the new product and pander to people’s gambling habits.
Mr Thanawat said the amendment is more about updating the law than getting the new lotto out.
“It isn’t because we plan to launch a new product. But it’s there just in case. The amendment is for the interest of 20 million lottery buyers and tens of thousands of vendors,” he told the seminar. “The GLO has no policy to introduce a new product. Certain working committees may come up with a few ideas but the GLO board at this point has no policy.”
He also urged the public to submit their opinions to authorities instead of airing criticism on social media.
The proposed amendment requires allocation of the proceeds from lottery sales into four portions: 60% for prizes; 22% for the state; 17% for fixed expenditure; and 1% for a social development fund.
The draft also imposes penalties for those who sell overpriced lottery tickets and sell tickets to people under 20.
Thanakorn Komkris, secretary-general of the Yoot Phanan (Stop Gambling) campaign, said the amendment draft lacks a proper and effective mechanism to combat gambling while it clearly will lead to the launch of the new product.
“The GLO is amending the law, so it should try to get the best out of it. It is clear the amendment is to pave the way for the new product, which is raising serious concerns about the jackpot prize,” he said.
He said the jackpot prize of 600 million baht is enough to lure people to buy lottery tickets and encourage regular buyers. He suggested the jackpot prize be limited to 100 million baht.
Mr Thanakorn said while the proposed fund for social development is welcomed, details should be given about ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Amnuay Klinyoo, chairman of the Disabled Lottery Traders Federation of Thailand, yesterday voiced concern that the new lotto will put the disabled out of jobs.