With enforcement protocols of the 2005 UK Gambling Act now going into effect, the critics are beginning to let their voices be heard. The latest resentment to be expressed is the provision that will allow local authorities to grant UK casinos the rights to keep their doors open up to 24 hours a day. Critics are claiming extended hours will only help to fuel problem gamblers who will be increasingly inclined to lurk about casino floors in the wee hours.

The current provisions state that casinos are limited to operating business hours from 2 pm until 6 am every day of the week (excluding Sundays, which endure a 4 am closing time). Now, however, UK casinos may apply to local authorities in the jurisdiction which they operate, for extended operating hours.

The UK Gambling Commission, who replaces many of the duties formerly assigned to the Gambling Board, has stated in line with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport that it is the local authorities who can best judge the status of affairs in their casinos, and consequently, on whether or not to allow the extension of operating hours.

As of yet, no casinos have been granted extended hours. Whether or not casino operators have applied or are considering applying for the extension remains to be seen. The truth of the matter is that early morning hours - that is, before 2 pm - are normally more suited for the older crowds. In Las Vegas, where casinos are open all the time, it has been shown that crowds will always tend to frequent the casinos in the evening hours, no matter the operating hours.

The concern that UK casinos will be propagated with problem gamblers because their doors open at high noon instead of 2 pm does indeed seem to be an unlikely case.