§ Q20. Mr. Liptonasked the Prime Minister whether he will propose an inquiry into betting and gambling either by means of a Royal Commission or a Select Committee.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Queen has been pleased to approve a recommendation that a Royal Commission on Gambling be set up with the following terms of reference
To enquire into the existing law, and practice thereunder, relating to betting, gaming, lotteries and prize competitions, with particular reference to:and to make recommendations.
- (a) the adequacy of the restrictions imposed on the provision of facilities for the dif-there is need for greater uniformity of of the principles applied, and whether there is need for greater uniformity of control;
- (b) the practices and financial structure of the gambling industry and the inter-relation of their gambling interests with other interests;
- (c) the publication of information about gambling activities, the methods of selecting winners or fixing odds, and the appropriation of receipts;
- (d) the contribution made from the proceeds of gambling towards the support of other activities (including sport), the means by which this might be enhanced, and the conditions to be imposed;
The Royal Commission will have all the usual powers. It will be asked to submit an early interim report on the possibilities of a levy on football pools or otherwise as a means of providing financial assistance to sport.
I am glad to be able to tell the House that Her Majesty has also been pleased to approve that Lord Rothchild be appointed Chairman of the Royal Commission. The rest of the membership will be announced in due course.