The opposition has cautioned against the social impact that new gaming regulations might have on families.

In a statement yesterday, social policy spokesman Carmelo Abela called on the government to say how it planned to protect vulnerable people before new lottery and gaming regulations come into force.

“The Labour Party doesn’t rely just on the laws but it is imperative that all the administrative measures and regulations are enacted so that the laws are observed by all,” Mr Abela said.

He said it was worrying that the government was going to liberalise sports betting, which would introduce gaming parlours under a new guise.

In a reaction, the Finance Ministry said the new regulations included safeguards for vulnerable people which would ensure that the gambling takes place in “protected places, away from places frequented by children, young people and other vulnerable people”.

“These regulations, which were also agreed upon by the Opposition when discussed, establish the distance these places have to have from centres and place frequented by children, including schools, catechism centres, churches, sporting facilities and playing fields among others,” the ministry said.

The ministry added that the new places would be under surveillance all the time, while sale of food and drink would be prohibited. People under the influence of alcohol would not be allowed in.