Christian Democratic Party Leader Reverend the Hon Fred Nile MLC and Senate team leader for New South Wales Pastor Paul Green have applauded the suggestion by Peter Holmes a Court that he and co-owner Russell Crowe might remove poker machines from South Sydney Leagues Club.

'The Christian Democratic Party wants all poker machines removed from NSW," said Reverend Nile, "and one reason is that the devices persistently strip purchasing power from people who are already short of money. I note with interest the statment by Mr Holmes a Court that 30% to 50% of the club’s poker machine revenue comes from problem gamblers and people on social security benefits."

Pastor Paul Green had this to say: "It is correct that a proportion of poker machine revenues is directed to worthy causes. The sad truth is that poker machines contribute to poverty, misery and family breakdown. They increase the demand for social welfare and reduce the nett amount of money available for philanthropy."