§ 56. Mr. Lawsonasked the Prime Minister whether he has considered a letter forwarded on behalf of Lambton D Colliery Coal Production Committee, in the county of Durham, in which it is stated that a good deal of absenteeism is due to greyhound racing on ordinary working days, and that, in the interest of the country's war needs for more coal, this dog racing should be stopped on working days; and whether he will have an investigation made into this matter and, if necessary, take appropriate action?
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Herbert Morrison)I have been asked to reply. I have seen the letter referred to. Greyhound racing 2040 is by arrangement limited to one meeting a week at each track and afternoon meetings are held only on Saturdays, public holidays and the local early closing day. Except for one track where licensing difficulties arise, greyhound racing in Durham County will in future take place on Saturday afternoons only.
§ Mr. LawsonAm I to take it that there is agreement that on all the courses in Durham the meetings will take place on Saturday afternoons?
§ Mr. MorrisonYes, Sir, except in the case of the one track concerning which licensing difficulties arose.