§ 63. Mr. THURTLEasked the Home Secretary if his attention has been drawn to the increasing practice of organising sweepstakes in connection with horse races; if he is aware that the legal position in connection with such sweepstakes is obscure; and if he will introduce legislation to remove doubts on the question?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have no evidence that the number of horse-racing sweepstakes open to the public is increasing, or that legislation is urgently required for the reason suggested in the question.
§ Mr. THURTLEIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the legal position in regard to sweepstakes is quite clear?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe position is a little difficult, but I rather feel it will not be necessary to consider it very much for another 11 months.
§ Sir FRANK MEYERWill the right hon. Gentleman undertake not to interfere in any way with people doing what they like with their own property?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI did not know there had been one.
§ Mr. HARRISIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these sweepstakes are organised largely to avoid, paying the Betting Duty?
§ Mr. BUCHANANWhy is it that raids are made in certain cases and not in others? Why is there any differentiation in carrying out the law in this respect?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member had better put a question down.