A GROUP of backbench Labour MPs who support expansion of the gambling industry have been selected to sit on a key Commons committee on the controversial Gambling Bill, writes Jason Beattie.

The Government, reeling from a backlash over its plans to bring Las Vegasstyle casinos to Britain, is to fill the committee with MPs who support its policy.

This is in breach of Commons convention which says parties should nominate candidates with a range of views. The Evening Standard has learned that Blackpool MP Joan Humble and Great Yarmouth's Tony Wright, whose constituencies are likely to benefit from the plans, have been asked to join the committee.

It will assess legislation and offer the Government chance to make changes.

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