§ Sir S. McAddenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will take steps to authorise the payment of gratuities in respect of gaming in licensed gaming clubs.
§ Mr. MaudlingNo. The Gaming Act, 1968, prohibits charges in respect of gaming whether they are compulsory, customary or voluntary. I have considered representations made by the British Gaming Association and the Casino Association that this prohibition does not apply to gratuities given in respect of the gaming or that, if it does, such gratuities should be expressly authorised by the exercise of the power to make a regulation to this effect. I have consulted the Gaming Board for Great Britain which has advised that gratuities should in no circumstances be permitted in respect of gaming. I have decided to accept this recommendation and, for264W the avoidance of doubt, to make a regulation specifically prohibiting all such gratuities.