§ Sir Charles MorrisonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations have been received seeking a tightening of the town and country planning law relating to amusement arcades; and whether the Government have any plans for future amendments to the law.
§ Mr. Howard[holding answer 17 April 1989]: My right hon. Friend has received a number of representations about planning decisions affecting amusement centres. Although some people regard them as socially or morally undesirable, amusement centres are a lawful use of land, and any applications for planning permission to establish them must be judged on their merits in terms of their land use planning implications. I do not consider that any amendment of planning law would be appropriate. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department is responsible for the licensing arrangements under the Gaming Act 1968, and for byelaws under the Public Health Act 1961, which regulate the operation of amusement centres.