HC Deb 10 May 1927 vol 206 cc208-9
47. Colonel DAY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been drawn to the committee set up by the Jockey Club, the National Hunt Committee and the National Coursing Club to inquire into the means of betting by the totalisator machine; and whether he will consider the setting up of a Departmental Committee for the purpose of investigating the best methods of revising and codifying the present betting laws, with a view to the introduction of legislation having as its object the legalisation of the totalisator?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am aware that a committee representing the interests mentioned is inquiring into the means by which betting may best be made to contribute to the maintenance of sport. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Blackpool on the 3rd May.

Colonel DAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that everybody connected with betting is of opinion that the sooner the totalisator is introduced the better it will be for all concerned?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I shall be very glad to receive any expressions of local or national feeling on this subject.

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