28
Despite adverse reaction among non-punters against special traffic arrangements made for racing at Sha Tin at the beginning of the current racing season, the increased fixtures have so far generated no unfavourable comment from the public. However, in view of the significant increase in the number of race meetings in the past five years (Annex A) and possible criticism against Government for allowing the Club to increase gambling opportunities, the Secretary for Home Affairs also covered this aspect in his discussion with the chairman and senior officials of the Jockey Club. Because of the numerous technical problems involved, the Jockey Club does not intend to increase the number of racing days beyond the 77 days referred to in XCC(77)75; however, it would like to re-appraise its own position should Sunday racing be allowed at Happy Valley. (Note: Executive Council adised and the Governor ordered on 11th October 1977 that there should be no Sunday racing at Happy Valley, but that the decision should be open to reconsideration after the completion of three racing seasons at Sha Tin.)
Minimum Age for Entry into Race Course
and Off-course Betting Centres
29
Arising from public concern expressed in early 1978, and as a step to discourage young people from taking up the gambling habit, the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club was asked to raise the- minimum age limit for betting at the race courses and off-course betting centres (where Mark Six lottery is also sold) from 17 to 18 or 21. The club agreed to raise it to 18 but considered it impractical to raise it to 21, because of both enforcement difficulties and the fact that some 20% of the Club's operational staff are in the age group of 18 to 21. Consequently, with effect from 3rd June 1978, the club amended its rules to prohibit any person below 18 from entry into race courses and off-course betting centres, irrespective of purpose. Notice to this effect is now displayed outside all off- course betting centres and young people found to be below the minimum age are persuaded by the Club's staff to leave the premises.
30
In the meantime, further consideration has been given to the question of minimum age. Eighteen is the permissible age for playing mahjong and tin-kau games at mahjong houses under Gambling Ordinance 1977 and for liquor drinking in licensed premises under the Dutiable Commodities (Liquor) Ordinance, Chapter 109. It is also the age for issue of adult identity cards and, generally, for secondary school leavers who do not pursue further studies to start earning their own living.
CONFIDENTIAL
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