§ Mr. Spenceasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that there is uncertainty over the legal position concerning Spot-the-Ball contests; and if he will review the relevant provision in the Gaming Acts, with a view to introducing amending legislation to avoid uncertainty.
§ Mr. CarlisleMy right hon. Friend understands that any uncertainty there may have been was resolved by the decision of the Divisional Court on 4th November, 1970, when it dismissed appeals against the conviction of Ladbrokes and seven national newspapers under section 47(1)(a)(i) of the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1963 in connection with the running of a Spot-the-Ball competition in the newspapers. He has no proposal for any amending legislation.