§ 8. Mr. Ashtonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will introduce legislation to compel newspapers to print a profit and loss account of "Mark the Ball" football competitions, and allow competitors to inspect winning entries.
§ Dr. SummerskillThis suggestion falls within the terms of reference of the Royal Commission on Gambling, and it would not be appropriate to introduce legislation in advance of any recommendations the Commission may make.
§ Mr. AshtonWas there not a White Paper in 1973 which recommended that? Why has no action been taken? Why has the matter been postponed to be dealt with by a Royal Commission?
§ Dr. SummerskillThe law relating to any particular competition is a matter for decision by the courts. So far no relevant case has appeared before the courts concerning "Spot the Ball" competitions. However, as a Royal Commission is inquiring into this subject, I suggest that my hon. Friend sends his views or evidence to it.
§ Mr. LiptonIs my hon. Friend aware that the "Spot the Ball" racket is a gigantic "con" out of which a small number of people make very large profits? In the meantime, could not an investigation be made into what is happening?
§ Dr. SummerskillThese competitions have not been declared illegal. The law is contained in Section 47 of the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963. However, their legal position will be reviewed by the Royal Commission. My hon. Friend, too, can put representations to that Royal Commission.