Gambling chiefs address hotel claims

Commission defends luxury bookings

The Island's gambling regulator has defended its travel policy, after a Freedom of Information request showed how staff frequently enjoyed stays in five-star luxury hotels.

Officials have made around 70 trips since 2014 to conferences and meetings around the world.

In a statement, the Gambling Supervision Commission says it 'doesn't tend to choose' which hotels are used for large overseas industry gatherings.

Bosses have spent around £17,000 on travel this year, which they say equates to just 1% of the authority's income.

The response concludes by saying delegations provide 'a lot of bang for their buck', and serve to 'demonstrate that the Isle of Man is committed to good business'.