HC Deb 27 March 1995 vol 257 cc679-80
7. Lady Olga Maitland

To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what representations he has received from pools promoters regarding equality of treatment with the national lottery. [14183]

Mr. Dorrell

I have received a number of representations from pools promoters about the national lottery.

Lady Olga Maitland

I thank my right hon. Friend for his reply. Is he aware that the pools promoters are now in very serious difficulties—indeed, they face a crisis—because of the phenomenal success of the national lottery which is taking away their natural custom? As a result, hundreds of people have lost their jobs and, more importantly, many of the charities which benefited from the pools are being deprived of their incomes. What steps will my right hon. Friend take to equalise the situation and create a level playing field over and above the steps that he has taken already in terms of advertising and opening further retail outlets?

Mr. Dorrell

I certainly acknowledge that the introduction of the national lottery has had an effect on pools companies' operations. Before we introduce more changes to the regime applying to such companies, it is important to see the effect of those already agreed—particularly the change that allows pools companies access to television advertising, which was announced by the Government in the last six weeks. We want to see the effect of that work through before we decide what happens next.

Mr. Orme

Many people want to know what effect the introduction of scratch cards is having, not only on football pools but on small lotteries—many of which will face extinction unless something is done. Will the Secretary of State present a review of that situation in the not-too-distant future?

Mr. Dorrell

I have repeatedly given assurances that we will monitor the effect of the national lottery on a range of institutions that feel that their operations may be affected. However, the House must also keep an eye on the national lottery's achievements. It has already mobilised about £300 million for good causes since it started last November, which is a huge increase in the resources available. While the national lottery has had an effect on others operating close to it, we should not lose sight of its achievements in mobilising resources not previously available to good causes.