Malaysian billionaire grabs UK licenses

LONDON, England – As reported by the Malaysia Star: "Hong Leong group's Tan Sri Quek Leng Chan has grabbed 25 of the 89 casino licences awarded in Britain in the past two years, according to The Business.

"Quoting figures from Britain's Gambling Commission sources, the London weekly magazine said the swoop was a major coup for the Malaysian billionaire, who also controls the Thistle Hotel chain as well as Mayfair's upmarket Claremont casino.

"The report said Quek, arguably one of the world's biggest high-rollers, now accounted for a remarkable 28% of permissions granted, easily crushing his rivals.

"Quek's plan to introduce gambling to Thistle was known but the scale of his ambitions, which could see a casino opened in more than half of his hotels, came as a shock, the magazine added.

"The move will cement Quek's status as a top player in British gaming following his acquisition of the Claremont Club last August for £31mil (RM217mil)…"

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