FOR AND AGAINST

Lake County Mail, Issue 32, 14 January 1948, Page 1

FOR AND AGAINST

Varied Public Reactions

GAMING COMMISSION’S FINDINGS

Now that the Gaming’ Commission has published its findings, and many and varied opinions have been expressed on the recommendations contained in their report, the public are looking forward with interest to see what action, if any, will be taken by the Government.

Very few have condemned the findings as a whole but certain recommendations have received unfavourable criticism. No one can doubt, however, the genuine attempt made by the commission to solve a problem which for years has been allowed to remain shelved.

In spite of the protests made by the Sportsmen’s Association there seems little reason to doubt the ability of a new organisation to take over the control of off-course betting. All the facilities that the bookmaker had, press, radio and telephone will bo available to the public to an even greater extent.

The suggested doubles totalisator has already been tried in this country and met with some success. The Racing and Trotting Clubs would be required to provide the necessary accommodation and staff for the new venture, and this is the main objection of the clubs to the scheme. Doubles totalisators combined with off-course betting are necessary if the bookmaker is to go.

The Roxburgh Trotting Club ■ has been granted a permit for a totalisator meeting and is justified *by the enthusiasm shown by the members over the past eight years. It will also be an encouragement to owners and trainers in the district.

There is more than a possibility that the smaller clubs would be able to give better facilities to the public as the totalisator would be carrying offcourse betting (including doubles), resulting in increased - revenue.

The suggested 5s ticket should appeal to those who feel that the time, has come when the brake should be put on the upward trend "of totalisator investments.

Those who dislike gambling cannot help admitting that careful control is in the jjublie interest and is absolutely necessary.

If it’s For Sale, Exchange or Wanted to Buy, advertise it in the Lake County Mail.