CLEANING UP RACING

Southland Times, Issue 19510, 9 May 1922, Page 3

CLEANING UP RACING

A DEMOCRATIC SOLUTION. There is an uneasy feeling in the minds of people who whole-heartedly admire racing as a sport, that the game is not all that is should be at the present time —that unless certain undesirable adherents are removed, extremists will take the opportunity of fanning the flame of suspicion in endeavouring to wipe Racing out altogether. The fact is that legislation against the bookmaker has not killed bookmaking but has driven it underground so that a pernicious system of secdet betting now extends its tentacles into shops, offices, and factories; destroying efficiency and causing a huge economic waste. In the old days we had a different type of man openly operating in the centres. Fine chaps most of them were, and they enjoyed the respect of the sporting community. Many people wish they were with us now. We pride ourselves in New Zea- i land on our democratic spirit. Why not clean up racing in a democratic way? A petition at present in circulation asks that I a Parliamentary Commission shall be set up < to take evidence from Ijoth sides as to the | legalising of bookmaking operations on racecourses only. This petition is being freely signed. Sportsmen can see that if the reputable bookmaker is allowed to .operate on courses, not only would the public be able to “back their fancy” with a choice of odds, but the control of “the sport kings” would be above reproach and secure against the inroads of extremists. Add your signature to tliis petition today. It has been freely circulated, and may be signed almost anywhere. When petitions are filled up they should be promptly returned to Box 1011, Wellington. (advt.)