SWEEPS AND LOTTERIES

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 118, 21 May 1932, Page 7

SWEEPS AND LOTTERIES

INQUIRY IN ENGLAND COMMISSION’S WIDE POWERS. T . , LONDON, April 15. In the House of Commons, the Home Secretary, Sir Herbert Samuel, announced the Government’s decision to appoint a Royal Commission to deal with the question of sweepstakes and lotteries. The announcement was, on the Whole well received by members. bir Herbert Samuel said: “It is generally agreed that there are serious difficulties in the way of enforcing the present Jaw in regard to sweepstakes and lotteries. Events during the last two years have brought the matter very prominently to the attention both of the Government and tho public. Questions have also arisen with regard to the use of totalisators, both generally and in connection with greyhound racing tracks. There are difficulties in connection with the enforcement of the law relating to street betting, and from time to time new developments arise, such as the attempt to introduce betting at motor-cycle speedway races. “In view of tho complexity of tho issues involved and the diversity of the views entertained in regard to these questions, the Government have de-

cided that, before considering whether any amendment of tho present Jaws is necessary, it is essential that a comprehensive inquiry should be undertaken by a Royal Commission. Steps will accordingly be taken for tho appointment of a Royal Commission, with wide terms of reference.’’

No plans have yet been made regarding the personnel of the commission, and the exact terms of reference have still to be drafted. It is expected that, tho chairmanship will be entrusted to somebody possessing considerable legal experience.

The Government’s decision means that the Lotteries Bill which Sir Wil liam Davison recently introduced into the House of Commons is dead. The Bill aimed nt legalising in this country sweepstakes for public objects. Tho House gave Sir William leave to introduce the measure by 176 votes to 123 —on a non-party division. Sir William expressed his disappointment at the delay which will be <causpd as a result of the prolonged inquiry which the Royal Commission is certain to undertake. “If the Royal Commission reports nt once.” he said, “not much harm will be done. But it is about time that this pouring of millions into Ireland stopped, and that we had the benefit, of this money for the urgent needs of tho charitable institutions of our own country, and especially for the equipment and extension of our hospitals.”