HC Deb 16 May 1928 vol 217 cc1039-40
64. Mr. HASLAM

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of recent decisions that such games as hoop-la and darts for prizes and coconut shies at fairs and shows are illegal, he proposes to introduce legislation for the purpose of legalising these amusements?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

If the reference is to the proceedings at the London Sessions in January against Patrick O'Brien, who pleaded guilty, I understand that the decision of the deputy-chairman was that the use of a certain gaming machine made the whole establishment a common gaming house, so that all the games therein, including darts and hoop-la, but not, I think, coconut shies, became unlawful. I last week received a deputation on the matter and am considering their views.

Mr. MACKINDER

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us what is hoop-la?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I am not sure whether it means anything going through the hoop or not.

Mr. MONTAGUE

Is there any joy in it?

Mr. HASLAM

In view of the very large number of His Majesty's subjects interested in these innocent amusements, cannot my right hon. Friend make some reassuring statement on the matter?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I have said that I received a deputation of several Members of Parliament last week on the subject, and I have asked my legal department to get me out a full statement of the law on the subject.

Sir F. HALL

Has not the law been stretched a little too far, and is my right hon. Friend aware that the Court of Appeal has heard the case of a whist drive held on behalf of a charitable institution?

Mr. SPEAKER

That arises on the next question.

Sir F. HALL

I mean it is getting a little bit too thick.

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