THE GAMING ACT.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVIII, Issue 18583, 9 December 1920, Page 7

THE GAMING ACT.

TO BE ENFORCED. [Pun Press Association.] WELLINGTON, December 8. Tho Minister of Justice stated today that he was aware that unlawful betting had not stopped, although lie thought that its volume had been reduced. The Government certainly was in earnest in enforcement of the law nnd he pointed out that the Gaming Act of last session provided penalties for men who bet with bookmakers, as well ns for bookmakers themselves. He would be sorry to see any of New Zealand’s sportsmen go to gaol, but the law was there to be observed and _it might be necessary to provide examples. “ I think most of the betting men will agree wife roe that the racecourses provide all the facilities Tor gambling that we require in this country,” said Mr Lee. “It is not in the public interest that young men in offices and factories should be crowding after bookmakers on working days ana spending money and time on race meet* mgs all over the Dominion. I am one of those who enjoy races, but I think Parliament was Well advised when it decided that betting should be confined to. racecourses.” j The Minister Addressed a conference of senior police officers in Wellington this" morning. Tho conference had been considering questions of organisation and administration as well as matters connected with the enforcement .of some of tho new laws.