HC Deb 06 June 1962 vol 661 cc440-1
6. Mr. Mclnnes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will indicate the total number of licensed betting offices in the City of Glasgow.

Mr. Brooman-White

I am informed that, as at 1st June, 1962, 444 betting office licences had been granted in Glasgow. The number of betting offices actually in operation is slightly less.

Mr. Mclnnes

I am afraid that the hon. Gentleman has his figures all wrong. Is he aware that a statement which he issued shows that Glasgow has 365 betting offices and that that number far exceeds the number in Birmingham and Liverpool put together? Will he take steps to see that no more licences are granted, otherwise internecine war will develop between rival bookmakers?

Mr. Brooman-White

This is an appropriate day to discuss this question. As for the figures, my information is that last year 407 betting licences were granted and now there are 444 licences. The question of how many licences should be granted is, of course, a matter for the local licensing authority.

Mr. Mclnnes

In view of the situation in Glasgow and the fact that already warfare has broken out between rival gangs of bookmakers, may I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he would advise the local authority to take steps to issue no more licences?

Mr. Brooman-White

The licensing court will no doubt take notice of what has been said in these exchanges.