“TOTE” IN NEW ZEALAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 189, 31 October 1927, Page 6

“TOTE” IN NEW ZEALAND

PLAYTHING OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN STATEMENT DENIED By Cable.—Press Association. — Copyright. LONDON, Saturday. SUPPORTERS of the installation of the totalisator or parimutuel on English race-courses deny suggestions made that in New Zealand the “tote” is merely the plaything of women and children. Australia’s example is extensively quoted in the newspapers. The “Daily Telegraph” refers to the alleged increase in the revenue of the Australian Government from the totalisator. It quotes one authoritative view to the effect that it is absolutely untrue that in Australia, where bookmakers work alongside the totalisator, the revenue from the machine has definitely decreased and is decreasing every year. It is anticipated that the installation of tho totalisator or pari-mutuel as recommended by the committee of the Jockey Club would facilitate the collection of the betting tax. It is also expected that the decision may induce bookmakers to reach an agreement as to the method of paying the tax. Probably they will approach the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. Churchill, on the subject. MIXED RECEPTION The Minister says he is prepared to consider alternative proposals for collecting the tax provided they do not involve a decrease in the revenue from this source. The decision to introduce the totalisator has met with a mixed reception from owners, bookmakers and bettors. The majority regard it as inevitable and a splendid thing for racing. Others are emphatic that it will be harmful. The bookmakers are unanimously protesting, though prominent turf men say they fail to see how it will prevent the bookmakers carrying on.—A. and N.Z.