§ 23. Mr. Goldingasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proposals he has received to improve the financial viability of the Totalisator; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudlingI have received a number of suggestions, including one from the National Association of Bookmakers that 1608 its members should co-operate with the Totalisator Board in promoting its jackpot. The board is following this up. If a practical solution emerges, I shall be glad to consider it: but it would need to be underpinned by the legislation which I have introduced to remove the competitive disabilities of the Tote.
§ Mr. GoldingIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that his Bill has caused very strong criticisms of the present administration of the Tote? Will he take steps not only to protect the Tote but also to improve its management?
§ Mr. MaudlingOne of the provisions of the Bill—I hope that I am not out of order in saying this—will be to provide an opportunity of a larger board. But one of the serious problems one faces is to put the Tote in the position where it can compete fairly with bookmakers.