§ 10. Mr. A. Robertsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received from the National Greyhound Racing Society of Great Britain concerning the closing hours of betting offices.
§ The Minister of State, Home Department (Mr. David Renton)The Society has brought to my right hon. Friend's attention a resolution passed at its annual general meeting on 16th May opposing any extension of the present closing hours of 6.30 p.m. for licensed betting offices.
§ Mr. RobertsWill the Minister resist any pressures put upon him or his Department to extend this form of betting, bearing in mind that to extend the hours would not be in the public interest?
§ Mr. RentonWhen the Bill was before the House, a majority of hon. Members 1564 were in favour of the closing time of 6.30 p.m. which had been recommended by the Royal Commission. We certainly shall not be rushed into making any change.