§ 23. Viscount CURZONasked the Home Secretary whether action is being taken by the Metropolitan Police against those individuals who play the game of poker; whether such action is being taken all over the country universally; why the game of poker is singled out; why is similar action not taken against those individuals who play other card games, such as old maid, beggar my neighbour, nap, bezique, bridge, etc.; and if similar action is contemplated against those who indulge in these unsafe and demoralising games of chance?
§ Mr. SHORTTI am informed by the Commissioner that action is not being taken against all individuals who play poker, but only against those persons who are responsible for it being played in such a way as to involve a breach of the law as to gaming houses, and similar action is taken with regard to the illegal playing of other games of chance when evidence is forthcoming. The question whether the law has been infringed in any particular case is, of course, one for the Court to decide, but the suggestions made by the Noble Lord in the latter part of the question will receive appropriate consideration.
§ Major BARNETTHas the attention of the Metropolitan Police been drawn to the lottery which is about to take place in connection with the Victory Loan?
§ Mr. SHORTTYes; I think it has.