Genting UK Slams Government’s “whack-a-mole approach” in Casino Reopening

Genting UK plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Genting Malaysia Bhd, has expressed frustration over the UK government’s announcement that casinos across England will remain closed for at least two more weeks.

Genting UK describes the move as a “whack-a-mole approach” in policymakers’ lockdown strategy to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Genting UK director of corporate assurance and regulatory affairs Jon Duffy was quoted as saying in the statement last Friday that the announcement flew in the face of the government strategy of local lockdowns.

“After weeks of meticulous planning, we find it incredible that we have been given less than 24 hours’ notice as to this change of plan, which in itself has caused huge damage to the business. Significant numbers of staff have been brought back from furlough to prepare for the reopening, and this is devastating news for our entire team who now faces further worry and uncertainty. For every week we remain closed, it is costing us over £1.5 million (about RM8.35 million). This is clearly not sustainable, with more jobs and livelihoods being put at risk with every last-minute change and delay,” Duffy said.

It was reported that Genting UK claimed the UK government’s decision to delay all casinos in England from reopening “defied logic and “seriously threatens the future of the entire industry.”

“We recognise that incredibly difficult decisions have to be made by all those in government, but we are absolutely confident that our venues are as safe, if not more so, than a range of other businesses now currently operating,” Genting UK said.