HC Deb 09 May 1932 vol 265 c1548
58. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will now inform the House as to the terms of reference to the Royal Commission on Lotteries, etc.; and what are the names of the commissioners?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir Herbert Samuel)

The arrangements are not yet quite complete, but I hope to be able to announce the terms of reference and the composition of the proposed Royal Commission at a very early date.

Sir W. DAVISON

Will my right hon. Friend be able to do so before the House adjourns for Whitsuntide; and is (he aware that it is about nine weeks since the House approved of the First Reading of the Lotteries Bill in certain approved terms by a considerable majority?

Sir H. SAMUEL

I hardly think that an announcement can be made this week, but the Commission is in an advanced stage of composition.

Sir W. DAVISON

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that millions of money are still crossing the water into Ireland while this delay is taking place?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

How long are the Irish people to go on exacting tribute from us in this way?

Mr. GROVES

As the English people seem to be the main winners, is it not true that the money comes back again to us?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

A quarter of a million did not come back.