HC Deb 22 February 1999 vol 326 cc109-10W
Mr. Nigel Jones

To 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 Howarth

We 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 of Bookmakers and the Scottish Independent Bookmakers' Association), the Betting Office Licensees Association, William Hill, Coral, Ladbroke and Stanley Leisure.

Mr. Nigel Jones

To 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 Howarth

The Government have made no such assessment. The structure and rates of levy are matters for the Horserace Betting Levy Board.