Much controversy has been sparked over the recent changes made to gambling laws that allow bookmakers to remain open on certain holidays in the same way that UK casinos are allowed. For the first time ever, Good Friday saw a range of bookmakers open their doors to business along with the UK casinos, and now fears are rising for the same behavior on the traditional Easter holiday.

The main opposition to the change comes from Religious Christian groups, who have protested that certain days of the year such as these should remain special, and that the wrong message about gambling may be perceived by some if UK casinos and bookmakers proceed with business at such times.

This opposition has been rebutted by the UK casinos and shops, who claim that like any other business, their intention is only to keep up with customer demand. Furthermore, they believe that when casino gambling is available on the Internet 24/7, such restrictions would be both outdated and unfair.

UK casinos and bookies are by law permitted to open their doors to business on every day other than Christmas Day. One of the shops to do so was William Hill, who was busier than expected with about 10% of its shops opened.

According to the William Hill Spokeswoman, “There's no doubt gambling is big business and all the evidence suggests there is a huge demand for betting on public holidays as much as at any other time of the year. I don't think this will contribute to any social problem."