US gambling giant Harrah’s is embarking on a covert lobbying drive as it attempts to get the green light to run a number of casinos across the UK.

The Las Vegas-based firm wants to capitialise on the Government’s plans to build 16 new casinos and has hired Insight Public Affairs in an attempt to win over ministers. The move is revealed in the latest register compiled by the Association of Professional Political Consultants (APPC).

Insight MD John Lehal declined to comment, but the register reveals that Harrah’s is a new addition to Insight’s client list.

The register also reveals that London Clubs International, which Harrah’s acquired for $568m in December 2006, is a new client of Insight.

Last year, Gordon Brown tore up Blairite plans for a supercasino based in Manchester, but the Government is pressing ahead with plans to build a further 16 gambling centres. These plans were officially approved by the House of Lords on 15 May.

Source:http://www.casinonews.org/