asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the effects of the Betting and Gaming Act, 1960, now incorporated into the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1963, are now under review; and when a report will be available.

The working of the Act is being kept under review, and my right hon. and learned Friend may wish to recommend the amendment of some parts of it. But I cannot say at present when this is likely to be.

Would the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the workings of this Act in certain respects give rise to very considerable concern and that it is essential to deal with it at an early date? Would he recommend to his right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the levy on betting shops be raised from £100 to£1,000 per annum?

I share the hon. Gentleman's concern about the development of some of the commercial gaming that is taking place. We are well aware of concern in many parts about these developments, and I can assure him that I will keep very close watch.