HC Deb 23 July 1919 vol 118 cc1360-1
56. Lieut.-Col. MEYSEY-THOMPSON

asked whether, in view of the fact that the French public in one year invested £13,000,000 in the totalisator; that the Government received 8 per cent. of this sum, 4 per cent. went back to racing, 2 per cent. to the support of hospitals, 1 per cent. to the direct encouragement of horse-breeding, and 1 per cent. to other useful purposes such as waterworks, etc., he will at once introduce legislation with the view of obtaining similar beneficial results in this county?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not think that it would be desirable to adopt my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion.

Lieut.-Colonel MEYSEY-THOMPSON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the success of our Armies during the War vas largely due to the number of high-class horses supplied by private breeders; is he also aware that the totalisator would greatly encourage the breeding of horses; and will he give the matter further consideration?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am afraid that I am not very familiar with the instrument to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, but I do not think the objects he has in view would be attained by the Government taking the special action he suggests.

Lieut.-Colonel MEYSEY-THOMPSON

I beg to give notice that I shall bring this matter up on the Motion for the Adjournment to-night, and I will further explain the subject to the right hon. Gentleman.