The leader of the House is to confirm today that the Gambling Bill will be given fast-track treatment in a bid to get it on the statute book before the general election.

Peter Hain will tell MPs that the legislation will be introduced ahead of the Queen's speech in order for more time to be available for debate.

The move contravenes convention but can be made because the bill has already received pre-legislative scrutiny.

The Times reports that American casinos will target every major town and city in Britain after the laws are relaxed.