HC Deb 18 December 1969 vol 793 cc1540-1
33. Mr. Woodnutt

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the six areas set out in his Department's Press statement of 9th December, from whom the Gaming Board of Great Britain is seeking the views of local authorities on the demand for gaming, are the only areas under consideration for addition to the list as set out in Statutory Instrument Number 1110; and on what criteria were the six areas selected.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

My right hon. Friend has not yet received the Board's final advice, but he understands that it does not at present contemplate recommending the addition of any more areas in addition to the six named. The Board has consulted those local authorities where responsible local representations have been made and where it appeared that the Board's general criteria might be met.

Mr. Woodnutt

Would not the hon. Gentleman accept the principle that if we are to permit gaming at all he should treat every area of the country in the same way?

Mr. Rees

When discussing this matter in the House my hon. Friend stated what were the views of the Government. They have been put to the Gaming Board. I think the matter should be left in that way now.

Mr. Edward Lyons

Will my hon. Friend express to the Gaming Board the appreciation of hon. Members representing those six areas because the Gaming Board asked for their opinions as well as for those of the local authorities? Is not that a precedent which other bodies ought more often to follow?

Mr. Rees

The Board will take note of what my hon. Friend said.