§ 24. Mr. Danceasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many licensed betting shops were registered in England, Wales and Scotland, respectively, as at 1st June this year.
§ Mr. BrookeThe numbers were 11,453 in England, 1,268 in Wales and 1,667 in Scotland. The total of118W 14,388 for Great Britain showed an increase of 1,048 over the figure for 1st June, 1962.
§ Mr. A. Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware of the large number of betting shops being established in Great Britain; and whether he will introduce legislation to limit the growth of these establishments.
§ Mr. BrookeThe number of betting office licences in force in Great Britain on 1st June,1963 was 14,388, an increase of 1,048 over the figure for 1st June, 1962. The local licensing authorities have power to refuse applications, and I am not convinced of the need for further legislation.