PM Considers Legalizing Snooker as Sport, Not Gambling
Prime Minister Anutin said he would reconsider legalizing snooker as a sport rather than gambling, consulting with the Interior Ministry after criticism from MPs that current laws under the 1935 Gambling Act prevent the activity from being
At Government House on September 18, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister addressed criticism from People's Party MPs who said the PM had refused to sign a decree removing snooker from the Gambling Act of 1935, which they argued failed to promote the sport. The PM said he would review the matter again and consult with the Interior Ministry permanent secretary, as the issue remains under consideration. Documents released yesterday showed the PM did not approve the change because some agencies believed it required legislative amendment rather than an executive order. The PM said snooker remained unresolved for him personally, but noted he had been a snooker runner-up before his eyesight deteriorated and would consider the matter carefully. He views snooker as a sport and skill-building activity, not vice. As a child, he said, playing snooker and billiards never felt like gambling or misconduct—it was a way to develop talent and ability. When asked whether loopholes in gambling law would be closed, the PM said any wrongdoing would involve treating snooker as gambling, but that differs from casino or illegal betting operations. He said this was his personal view but he needed to hear other opinions first; if government agencies disagreed, he would argue his case.
