HC Deb 29 November 1938 vol 342 c242
50. Sir Joseph Leech

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has had any estimate formed of the approximate amount of money turned over on horse-race betting, greyhound betting, and football pools during the last available 12 months; and, if the Government do not possess the information, will he take steps to have such an estimate prepared?

Sir J. Simon

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, I regret that I cannot see my way to authorise the elaborate investigation which the preparation of such an estimate would involve.

Viscountess Astor

Does not my right hon. Friend realise that betting is becoming a serious social menace, and that something must be done to stop it?