HC Deb 28 February 1957 vol 565 cc1391-2
44. Mr. E. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has given further consideration to the question of legalising cash betting on horse and dog racing by post. the establishment of betting offices, and the licensing of off-the-course credit bookmakers; and if he will make a statement.

60. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when it is proposed to introduce legislation to reform the betting laws and legalise cash betting, as recommended by the Royal Commission on Betting, Lotteries and Gaming, 1949–51.

Mr. R. A. Butler

It is hoped to introduce legislation on these matters as soon as Parliamentary time permits.

Mr. Johnson

May I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is aware that the present state of the law in regard to betting is probably one of the causes of the present crime wave in Manchester? Will he take an early opportunity to implement the undertaking given last year on behalf of the Government, which will be welcomed by the police, which will fortify the revenue, and which will benefit sport?

Mr. Butler

I do realise that the present state of off-the-course betting is very unfair because the law on the subject is chaotic; in fact, it does not exist. Therefore, it is important that the matter should be dealt with, but I am also aware that there are many controversial questions raised in this issue of betting, gaming and lotteries, and I am not prepared to come to a final conclusion until I have had more time to study it.

Mr. Younger

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is probably the oldest of the major Reports which have been awaiting action by his Department, and since both he and his predecessor have always given the excuse about the difficulties of Parliamentary time in relation to promoting legislation, will he not at least say that this matter now ranks high in the legislative programme of the Home Office?

Mr. Butler

There have been various other representations since the Committee reported, and I am having to digest them as well as the Report itself. Then, I will be able to make a statement when the Government are ready to decide on legislation for the next year.