PUTTING DOWN GAMING.

Patea Mail, 12 October 1881, Page 3

PUTTING DOWN GAMING.

Thk most stringent law passed last session is the Gaming and Lotteries Act. It prohibits betting on any game of chance, including cards, dice, billiards, sweepstakes, Chinese fan-tan, &c,; and it treats as a common gaming-house any place where such games are played for wagers, bets, or any valuable consideration. A “ shilling in and the winner shouts ” is unlawful gaming, because certain moneys are staked on the turn of dice. Sixpence a corner at whist is unlawful gaming, whether played in a public-house or private club. A poor swagger cannot raffle his watch without breaking the law. Lotteries arc included with sweepstakes, and prohibited. Betting on a game of billiards, cards, &c., is unlawful; and no wager is to bo recoverable. Lawful sports are excepted ; such as horse-racing, boating, &c. Bets on these are deemed to be different from games of chance—they are in the nature of games of skill, and therefore legitimate. The totalisator may also be licensed for use, on application to Colonial Secretary. Art Unions, whose deed of association is approved by the Attorney - General, are exempted. Another exception is that the Colonial Secretary may grant a license, on application, for disposal by lottery of any work of art, mineral specimen, or mechanical model. Agricultural Associations may also dispose by lottery of any specimens exhibited at a public show. This enables articles to be raffled for after a show. Bazaar raffles are not provided for, and appear to be unlawful. Penalties are heavy, including severe fines in money and imprisonment, at the option of justices. This Act altogether is a stinger.