§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what action he is taking to safeguard the contribution to medical research and services for handicapped people by the Spastics Society, Tenovus, Action Research for the Crippled Child and other charities in the light of the report of the Royal Commission on gambling; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what representations he has received from charities whose contributions to medical research and services for handicapped people have been threatened by the report of the Royal Commission on gambling; what reply he has given; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesI have had representations from nine hon. Members and from three of the charities concerned about the Royal Commission's recommendation that the Pool Competitions Act 1971 should be allowed to expire next July; and my hon. Friend, the Under-Secretary of State, has received a deputation led by my hon. Friend.
I have given assurances that these representations will be taken fully into account before the Government reaches a decision on this recommendation.