the draw takes place and repeats it at 6.30 p.m. the same evening, immediately before the actual draw, the television presenter gives an analytical review of the previous drawing records, talks about the numbers which have been drawn in the past and speculates about the numbers which might come up in the latest draw. In the opinion of the Commissioner for Television and Entertainment Licensing, this last minute speculation is no more than an enter- tainment commentary: it gives participants in the lottery little encouragement as ticket sales are closed the night before the broadcast is made. Apart from this short commentary, the rest of the RTV programme is a straightforward record of the actual drawing procedure.
39
Based on the foregoing, it appears that there is no deliberate attempt to encourage gambling through publicity related to the announcement for lotteries results. Nonetheless, in view of the observation made at paragraph 35, it is intended that the Board should be reminded of this point when further publicity and promotional measures are considered.
Macao Greyhound Racing
40
In memorandum XCC(75)24 on the subject of lotteries (paragraph 33), reference was made of a review on the possibility of legalising off-course betting on Macao greyhound racing after the difficulties arising from the increase of passenger ferry charges for Hong Kong-Macao journeys had settled. This issue has been further examined in the context of providing further lawful outlets for illegal gambling in order to eradicate opportunities for syndicated corruption.
41
Off-course betting on Macao greyhound racing remains one of the major areas of illegal gambling activities. Cash and credit betting, with their usual 10-20% discounts and variety of accumulative bets, are still being offered by illegal bookmakers to their known customers. It is believed that certain officials of the Macao Canidrome are closely involved in the operation through provision of direct telephone contact to the Canidrome for 'laying off' bets. It has also been suggested that people who bet on greyhound racing do not necessarily belong to the same group of punters who bet on horse racing or Mark Six lottery; furthermore, whilst legal alternative outlets have been provided for illegal betting on horse racing and 'tse fa', no lawful channels have been provided for illegal off-course greyhound racing. From the corruption prevention point of view, it is desirable, therefore, that off- course betting on Macao greyhound racing should be legalised as - soon as possible.
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