HC Deb 06 December 1928 vol 223 cc1376-7
11. Major BRAITHWAITE

asked the Home Secretary in view of the ruling of the Courts in reference to football competitions in newspapers, whether he will introduce legislation to make such competitions legal?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I have received no request from any newspaper for such legislation and it is far too soon to consider it.

Captain GARRO-JONES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the utter confusion in which the law relating to news- paper competitions stands, in that it permits what are called bullets or missing words, but does not permit last-line competitions? Will he bring in legislation to amend and clarify the law?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I am afraid that I have not any experience of bullets and last-line competitions. If the hon. and gallant Member will prepare me a paper on the subject, I shall be glad to consider it.

Commander BELLAIRS

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this legal decision is highly unpopular, that there is a demand for legislation, and that in many quarters the decision is attributed erroneously to the Government?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Of course, the Government had nothing whatever to do with the legal decision. It is far too early for the Government to consider dealing with a decision which was given, I think, only a week ago. Until to-day I have not heard the view expressed that the decision was unpopular.

Major BRAITHWAITE

Were these proceedings taken at the instigation of the right hon. Gentleman's Department?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

No, Sir.