§ 15. Mr. HoltTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he last reviewed the effectiveness of the Sunday Observance Act 1780 in relation to spectator sporting events on Sundays.
§ Mr. John PattenWe are not aware of any widespread demand for a review of the effects of the Act on spectator sports in general and have not undertaken one. The issues, however, have received close parliamentary consideration in the context of the Sunday Sports Bills now before the House.
§ 25. Mr. SoamesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has had with the racing authorities about the introduction of Sunday racing.
§ Mr. John PattenOur discussions have been reflected in the measure of general support which we have expressed for the two Sunday Sports Bills which are at present before the House. It does not seem to us unreasonable for the racing authorities to want to hold races on Sundays and to make provision to avoid illegal betting. Equally., we have made clear our respect for the position of those who wish to retain the traditional pattern of Sundays.
§ 43. Mr. KeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information he has about the number of convictions which have been brought under the Sunday Observance Act 1780 in the last five years in respect of spectator sporting events on Sundays.
§ Mr. John PattenThe information available to me, which may be incomplete, shows no prosecutions relating to sporting events under the Sunday Observance Act 1780 for the years 1982 to 1986.