§ 17. Mr. Higgsasked the Home Secretary whether he considers that horse racing and similar sports which employ a large number of people directly and indirectly should be allowed to continue during the present critical times; and is he prepared to stop these meetings?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe Government's views regarding the continuance of race meetings and other forms of recreation were indicated in the reply which I gave on 30th May to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Colne Valley (Mr. Glenvil Hall). I stated then that the Government would not hesitate to impose on public entertainments such further restrictions as circumstances might warrant; and arrangements have recently been made for a further curtailment of the horse racing programme, which had already been greatly reduced, and also for the restriction of greyhound racing meetings, so that they will not be held at times which interfere with working hours.
§ Mr. HiggsIs not the Minister aware that his reply of 30th May referred specifically to dog racing and that the only part of the Question to which he replied was the suggestion that racing news should not be broadcast? Is he aware of the growing indignation among industrial workers at this type of sport being allowed to continue in the present strenuous times?
§ Mr. Glenvil HallIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this afternoon 30,000 or 40,000 people are attending dog race meetings, at a time when Paris is fighting for its very life?
§ Mrs. TateIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in Oxford Street yesterday there were boards chalked with details of Derby betting, and alongside of them another saying, "Paris a besieged city"? Does not that offend against decency?
§ Earl WintertonDid not the racing correspondents say about the Derby yesterday that thousands and thousands of motor cars were parked at New market?
§ Sir J. AndersonI quite recognise the strength of the feeling on this matter. On the other hand, as I indicated in my previous reply of 30th May, it is necessary to give consideration to the forms of relaxation available to the workers. In this matter I have been acting in very close consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour, and I propose to continue to do so.