BROADCASTING RACING

Hokitika Guardian, 6 August 1928, Page 3

BROADCASTING RACING

RACING CLUB’S VIEWS. (By Telegraph—Per Press Association.) CHRISTCHURCH, August 6. Replying to tlie Radio Broadcasting Coy., the Secretary of the Racing Conference says: “The attitude which your company proposes to take in connection with the broadcasting of the descriptions of racing and trotting meetings, is regretted, not only because your proposed action to broadcast such information is contrary to the wishes of the Racing and Trotting Conferences, but also for the reasons: (1) That it creates and maintains attention to happenings at race meetings, during the progress thereof, by many persons not present, which results in a disadvantage to the business community; and (2) that it promotes and facilitates illegal betting.” “The fact that your company is not alone responsible for certain abuses is, 1 think, generally recognised; but, nevertheless, it is common knowledge that broadcasting results, etc., during the progress of a race meeting, stimulates interest away from the racecourse on race days, and results in an increase of illegal betting. THE OTHER SIDE. CHRISTCHURCH, August 6. In reply to a statement by the Racing Conference the Radio Broadcasting Coy says: “We have all along failed to follow the arguments of the racing authorities. Their attitude in regard to the spread of illegal betting is sheer hypocritical nonsense, nor does the broadcasting of race results affect adversely totalisator investments. Rather does it increase them owing to the publicity given. Additional interest thereby is aroused in races and correspondingly increased attendances. Though it is safe to say that the racing authorities are more concerned about the possible harmful effect of broadcasting from the point of view or tlieir share of totalisator investments, they have chosen to pose as correctors of public morals in regard to betting. The public will appreciate at their real worth these protestations nnd feigned feelings. The Broadcasting Company has no need to make any such professions.