HC Deb 24 June 1971 vol 819 cc1572-3
12. Mr. Ashton

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to increase the efficiency and profitability of the Tote.

Mr. Maudling

I am aware of the problems confronting the Totalisator Board and I am in touch with the Chairman about them, but I am not yet in a position to say more.

Mr. Ashton

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that in a good profitable year the Tote has been expected to plough its profits back into racing and that in a bad year it has been expected to stand the losses? Would it not be a good thing if he could arrange for some money to be given to the Tote for a computer so that it could increase its efficiency in off-course cash betting and compete on equal terms with the large bookmakers?

Mr. Maudling

I am concerned about the difficulties facing the Tote Board. It is true that in the past when it has been doing better it has carried a pretty heavy proportion of the levy. I am studying this matter and I should be grateful for any helpful suggestions.

Mr. Wingfield Digby

Is my right hon. Friend sure that the Tote Board has enough power to show the same initiative as it did with the jackpot and as it has recently shown in reducing the lower limit for credit betting?

Mr. Maudling

Yes. I was glad to see the recent moves which it made in consultation with us. I am studying all other possibilities which can be brought to my attention to enable it to strengthen its business.

Mr. Elystan Morgan

Will the Home Secretary tell the House for how many years the Tote has not paid the annual levy to the Horserace Betting Levy Board and what is the total sum involved?

Mr. Maudling

I cannot give the exact figure. In the past the Tote has been required to make a contribution of 25 per cent. of the total cost against the share of betting turnover of 5 per cent. It is only in the last year or two that it has not been in a position to make a contribution. It may be rather more than I said. I cannot give the exact figure.