THE Bishop of Truro has condemned Government proposals to relax gambling laws which could allow "super casinos" to be built in Cornwall.

The Rt. Rev Bill Ind says the proposals could have disastrous consequences for the county's residents, promoting a get-rich-quick attitude.

He rejected claims by the Government that an increase in the number of casinos would not result in more "gambling addicts" and has highlighted the effect the National Lottery has had on people. He said: "People will be thinking they can get rich quick. Those who most use the lottery are those who can ill-afford to do so.

"There needs to be safeguards in place for people who do not have money."

However, Bishop Bill, who believes gambling to be a moral as well as a social issue, feels there are only a few towns in Cornwall that could sustain the presence of a casino in their community. He said: "Newquay would be the obvious place and St Austell has been suggested. There are few centres where there are likely to be enough people to make such a proposition viable." SEE THIS WEEK'S TRURO PACKET FOR FULL STORY