A GAMBLING policy which could pave the way for a casino in Wycombe is under discussion ahead of new betting laws that come into effect next year.

The new measures will see responsibility for issuing gambling licences pass from magistrates to Wycombe District Council's licensing committee from September 2007.

The committee will then oversee any applications to open casinos, bingo halls or other betting establishments in the town.

A draft policy was discussed last week by the licensing committee before it goes out for consultation with authorities and groups such as Thames Valley Police, Bucks Fire and Rescue and Gamblers Anonymous.

The council had the option to resolve not to issue any casino licences, but the draft policy has not adopted this measure.

Cllr Paul Rogerson, licensing committee chairman, said the council was keeping its options open about the future.

He said: "There may be some locations that would lend themselves to a casino. If someone came forward with an idea that was suitable then I am sure we would consider it."

Under the new Gambling Act, 17 new casinos will open across the UK, including one super casino. Eight locations, including Greenwich and Brent in London, are battling it out to be awarded the solo super casino licence.

There are no casinos in Wycombe currently and as the council did not apply for one of the 17 licences, any plans to bring a casino to the district would have to wait until more licences become available.

The new legislation is designed to stop crime currently linked to gambling, to regulate gambling and to stop vulnerable people being exploited by it.