HC Deb 26 January 1967 vol 739 cc1741-2
2. Mr. Arnold Shaw

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will institute research on the personal and social consequences of the establishment of betting shops.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Dick Taverne)

My right hon. Friend wishes first to await the results of the research into the incidence of gambling, with particular reference to betting offices and casinos, which is being undertaken by the London School of Economics, supported by funds obtained by the Churches' Council on Gambling.

Mr. Shaw

While welcoming the possibility of such research going on, may I ask my hon. and learned Friend whether he would agree that in view of the growing public disquiet on this matter a real investigation might take place at the present time?

Mr. Taverne

There are a number of questions one would like to know the answers to, but I think one should first await the results of this research, which is looking at the profitability of betting offices in relation to the social characteristics of an area and includes a social survey of the incidence in different parts of the country of all kinds of gambling.

Dr. Winstanley

Would the hon. and learned Gentleman agree that if the persons inside the betting shops were visible to people outside, such as wives and employers, this would have a beneficial effect on absenteeism? Would he consider planning regulations along those lines?

Mr. Taverne

We can certainly look at the question of glass doors and open windows.