§ 50. Mr. CLARRYasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has considered the documents which have been sent to him relative, to the sweepstake in aid of the Humanitarian Rescue Workers' Organisation; and if he contemplates any action in the matter?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Gilmour)My attention had already been drawn to the scheme for a Grand National and Lincolnshire draw promoted by this organisation, and I am informed by the Commissioner of Police that proceedings are now pending against the organisers and the printers of the tickets.
§ 51. Mr. CLARRYasked the Home Secretary whether he is prepared to introduce legislation designed to inflict more severe penalties upon dishonest sweepstake promoters whose continued activities are directed to the exploitation of the poorer classes?
§ Sir J. GILMOURAny legislation on this subject must await the final report of the Royal Commission on Lotteries and Betting.
§ Mr. CLARRYIs it not possible to discriminate between purely technical breaches of the law where there is a chance given to investors, and those which are purely swindles in which there is not 'a sporting chance for the persons investing?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThese things are all very closely watched. If there is any indication of a swindle, the police have instructions to look carefully into it.