§ 34. Mr. A. REEDasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction aroused in many parts of the country over the manner in which that portion of Part II of the Betting and Lotteries Act, 1935, dealing with small draws and sweepstakes is being administered; and whether there is any intention to introduce amending legislation to clarify the meaning of the Act?
§ Mr. LLOYDThe enforcement of the law is the responsibility of chief officers of police and I am not aware of any general dissatisfaction with their administration. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.
§ Mr. REEDIs the hon. Gentleman not aware that in some cases small draws have been permitted, and in other cases not? In view of the confusion that has arisen, would he not reconsider his decision?
§ Mr. LLOYDIn any case it is the duty of the court to interpret the law and to decide individual circumstances on their merits.
§ Mr. REEDDoes not the hon. Gentleman consider that the Act is being administered in a way quite contrary to what was anticipated by Parliament?