Lotto operator may take over on January 1

Finance Minister John Dalli said yesterday it was hoped that the new operator of public lotto could start operations on January 1 next year.

Replying to a parliamentary question by Labour MP Leo Brincat, the minister said that depended on the conclusion of the talks with the operator and the Union of Lotto Receivers and final Cabinet approval.

Mr Dalli said he had never heard an allegation, made by Mr Brincat in his question, that a member of the privatisation unit had served as consultant to one of the bidders. Mr Brincat had asked the minister whether he could confirm such reports. Mr Dalli invited Mr Brincat to submit any information he may have.