§ 76. Mr. McENTEEasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a demonstration fête, at which he was the principal speaker, held at the White House, Woodford, in the Parliamentary borough of Walthamstow, on Saturday, 18th July, was raided by police, who found machine games being played for money prizes; whether this illegal money gambling was stopped by the police; and whether he proposes to take any action against the promoters of the demonstration fête?
§ Sir J. SIMONI am informed by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis that two police inspectors visited the fête in the ordinary course of their duties and found certain games being played for money. The organiser of the fête and the showmen were informed that if these games were continued the police would be obliged to take action and the games were immediately closed down. In these circumstances the Commissioner does not propose to take any further action.
§ Mr. McENTEEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that after the police 1097 had gone these games were again started, and that the prizes were cigarettes and sweets? May I also ask whether the right hon. Gentleman himself took any part in the games?
§ Sir J. SIMONI can assure the hon. Member that my part was regarded by the meeting as much less amusing.
§ Mr. THURTLEWhat body organised this fete, and was the approval of the Free Church Council given for the use of these machines?
§ Mr. GALLACHERIs it not obvious that the whole lot of these restrictions that are imposed at the present time should be withdrawn?