§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received regarding the proposed changes to the Bookmakers Committee. [70991]
§ Mr. George HowarthWe issued a consultation letter to interested organisations seeking comments by 8 February. We have received representations from Tyndallwoods solicitors (on behalf of the British Betting Office Association, the National Association of110W Bookmakers and the Scottish Independent Bookmakers' Association), the Betting Office Licensees Association, William Hill, Coral, Ladbroke and Stanley Leisure.
§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the impact on the competitiveness of small and independent bookmakers of replacing the existing scheme by an increased flat percentage rate of levy payable on each bookmaking shop. [70992]
§ Mr. George HowarthThe Government have made no such assessment. The structure and rates of levy are matters for the Horserace Betting Levy Board.