§ 68. Mr. R. MORRISONasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the recent legal decision with respect to football coupons and of the uncertainty which exists with regard to the legality of crossword puzzles, whist drives, raffles, and other forms of recreation, he will set up a committee to inquire and report what steps are necessary to bring the law into conformity with modern requirements?
§ Sir V. HENDERSONThe matters referred to are of such scope and variety that the law as to them can hardly be simple, but I do not think the question of legality is left in a state of undue uncertainty and, until there is at least a measure of unanimity as to the nature of modern requirements in the matter, my right hon. Friend doubts whether any Committee could usefully address itself to the task of suggesting how the law could be brought into conformity therewith.
§ Mr. MORRISONHas the hon. Member no suggestion to make in order to deal with the present confusion?
§ Sir V. HENDERSONNot at the moment.
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEDoes the hon. Member realise that some forms of this practice come within the law and others which appear to be far more injurious escape entirely?
§ Sir V. HENDERSONThat, again, is a matter of opinion.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the hon. Member satisfied with the present state of affairs by which Derby sweeps for thousands of pounds are carried on without any interference, and these poor men's amusements are stopped?
§ Sir V. HENDERSONThe state of the law seldom satisfies everybody.