The Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Tam Pak Yuen, said today that a law would be introduced soon to cap the gaming junket promoters' commissions at 1.25%.

Mr Tam announced this after he met with representatives of six gaming operators this afternoon.

He said this decision was based on the principle of the Gaming Industry Regulatory Framework, and a by-law for this cap would soon be passed to the Executive Council for further discussion. This process is expected to be completed in August, he said.

The by-law would provide for stiff punishment for violators, but there would be a grace period for operators to make the necessary adjustment in their contracts with gaming promoters.

Mr Tam also said the Government was very concerned to hear that some foreign workers were being employed as dealers -- which was against law -- and the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau would closely monitor the situation. So far, they have not seen a case.

Mr Tam said issues such as the number of tables, local manpower and gaming workers’ promotion prospects were also discussed at the meeting.