A debate is raging in Thailand over a proposal to legalise casinos as a way of attracting tourists and gaining revenue from both foreigners and locals.

The ruling Thai Rak Thai party is seeking government approval for the opening of domestic casinos.

Currently, the only legal gambling operation in Thailand, is run by the government lottery office, a state enterprise under the finance ministry.

Researchers at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, estimate that billions of Thai baht were spent in underground bets on the football world cup last month and millions of baht are spent by Thais in casinos across the border from Thailand.

More than 20 casinos operate on the Thai/Cambodian border and most of their customers are Thai.

Policymakers are keen to tap into Thailand's love of gambling as a source of potential tax revenue and would like to see Thailand embrace casinos in a similar way to Macau and Las Vegas.

Thailand's National Police Chief Sant Sarutanont, who supports the proposal to legalise casinos says:

'If the government agrees to open casinos, the police will keep them in order and make them benefit society as much as possible. The state could stipulate that casino operators allow entry only to the wealthy. Visitors could be required to present assets or records of tax payment that should meet minimal amounts to be set.'