HC Deb 03 August 1961 vol 645 cc213-4W
55. Mr. E. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received about the effects of the House of Lords decision on Bradley v. Payne and others; whether he has completed his consideration of this case; and whether he will now amend Section 4 of the Small Lotteries and Gaming Act, 1956.

Mr. Renton

The broad effect of the House of Lords judgment was that the phrase "purposes other than purposes of private gain" in Section 4 of the Small Lotteries and Gaming Act. 1956, does not include the general purposes of a social club; consequently, it is unlawful for such a club to run a small gaming party under that Section if the proceeds are to go into its general fund. The phrase "purposes other than purposes of private gain" is used in a number of contexts in gaming and lotteries legislation, including the provisions of Section 17 of the Betting and Gaming Act, 1960, relating to gaming machines in places to which the public do not have access. Thus the judgment has wider implications which my right hon. Friend has been considering in the light of representations which he has received.

I am told that considerable difficulties will be caused by this interpretation of the law to many clubs which have drawn revenue from gaming or lotteries which, before the judgment, were thought to be lawful. The Government is examining the implications of this situation, and the possible ways in which the law might be amended.

Mr. Dodds

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a further statement in respect of the consideration now being given to the confused situation that has developed in respect of Bingo in working men's clubs arising from the recent judgment in connection with Section IV of the Small Lotteries and Gaming Act, 1956.

Mr. Renton

I would refer the hon. Member to the Answer given to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Bolton, East (Mr. F. Taylor) today.