HC Deb 10 November 1930 vol 244 c1324
84. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been called to the sums of money which are leaving this country for investment in the Irish Free State sweepstake; and whether he has in contemplation the issue of premium bonds or other similar device to secure the retention of such moneys in this country?

Mr. PETHICK - LAWRENCE

The answer to both parts of the question is in the negative.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that hundreds of thousands of pounds are leaving this country for the Irish Free State in this connection, that a much larger sweepstake is contemplated, and will he not do something to meet the sporting instincts of the country in the way of premium bonds which will be both an investment and a lottery?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

I think that the answer which I have given on behalf of my right hon. Friend deals with both those points.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is not this a tribute to the sporting instincts of the Irish Free State?