HC Deb 12 April 1945 vol 409 cc1996-7W
Mr. Parker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why the Commissioner of Police permits such clubs as Crockfords and Hamiltons to remain open for the purpose of unlawful gaming, which is contrary to the verdict of a jury presided over by the deputy-chairman, Mr. A. Cockburn, K.C., at the County of London Sessions, on 22nd June, 1944, when it was decided that any place where poker is played constitutes a common gaming house.

Mr. H. Morrison

The jury's verdict in the case referred to related solely to the particular premises which were the subject of the proceedings, and did not—and indeed could not—decide that any place where poker is played constitutes a common gaming house. The question whether proceedings should be taken by the Commissioner of Police in respect of the playing of poker in any premises must depend on the circumstances of each individual case.