HC Deb 05 November 1970 vol 805 cc1240-1
10. Mr. Buck

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement concerning the operation of the Gaming Act, 1968.

Mr. Carlisle

The Act is in general operating well; but, in agreement with the Gaming Board, my right hon. Friend contemplates that in future the areas in which licences for general gaining may be sought shall be determined by a general formula instead of being individually selected. He is discussing the details of this formula with the Board and will make an announcement shortly. There will be no additions to the existing areas for the second licensing period, but the change should result in some additions for the third period so that successful clubs will be able to start operating in June, 1972.

Mr. Buck

I am much obliged to my hon. Friend for that answer. Is he aware that many of us will regard it as a substantial step in the right direction, because many of us take the view that the attempt to limit hard gaming by areas is somewhat absurd? As this is a somewhat complicated Act, will he institute a debate on its operation ere long? In the meantime, would he consider relaxing some of the restrictions on soft gaming, like bingo, in particular the restrictions on the advertising of bingo, which seem absurd to many of us?

Mr. Carlisle

My hon. Friend has asked me several supplementaries. The question of a debate is one for the Leader of the House. As for bingo, to the best of my knowledge, no approach has been made to the Home Office about any alterations on the lines that my hon. Friend suggests. I note his comments about what we are doing with regard to hard gaming.

Mr. O'Malley

If we are to have these gambling casinos, would the hon. Gentleman consider the anomalous situation which exists whereby the proprietors of these casinos can use recorded music in the casino but cannot employ live musicians?

Mr. Carlisle

I am aware of the position, but we have no proposals at the moment for allowing live entertainment with gaming.

Sir E. Bullus

What will be the criteria for the newly selected areas? Will an area like Wembley, which is a sporting area, be included?

Mr. Carlisle

I am afraid that my hon. and gallant Friend will have to await the statement which my right hon. Friend will be making as soon as possible. It will, of course, then depend on the criteria whether Wembley is included.

Mr. Elystan Morgan

Is the hon. Gentleman in a position to undertake not to give in to the pleas of his hon. Friends and thereby wreck the principle of the designated areas which, according to the Gaming Board, was the only way in which the whole principle of the 1968 Act could be carried out?

Mr. Carlisle

As I said, we are proceeding with this matter in conjunction with the Gaming Board. Our intention is that in future areas should be determined by a general formula rather than being individually selected; but the hon. Gentleman will have to await the statement from my right hon. Friend.