TNAG-1552-FCO40-2116-Hong-Kong-illegal-betting-syndicate-1986 — Page 23

XCC (86)137

Publicity

77

As the conclusions of this review represent little departure from the existing policy, and as gambling is such a controversial topic, no specific effort should be made to publish the outcome of this review. However, as the subject is likely to remain one of constant interest to the public, the information contained in this paper will be used to answer queries from the media as and when the need arises.

Advice sought

78

82

(a)

(b)

(c)

Members are invited to note

that legislative amendments for the improved control of illegal gambling activities are the subject of a separate review which is currently under way (paragraph 6);

the Club's proposals for extending the racing season into the annual summer break and the construction of a third race-course will be subject to further consideration and submission to Council (paragraph 9);

the licensed and

and operating capacities the

present

horse-racing

(paragraphs 7 and 8);

for

facilities

(d) the assessment of legal betting turnovers

(paragraphs 36-42);

(e)

(£)

(g)

(a)

lottery, the and that a

the turnover of

of the Mark Six state of the Lotteries Fund review of the latter may be the subject of a separate submission to Council (paragraphs 43-47);

the control of

mahjong associations and

• clubs will be the subject of separate consideration (paragraph 55); and

assessment of illegal gambling activities and a summary of Police action to

to control such activities (paragraphs 66-74).

Members are invited to advise whether :-

the number of meetings be kept at 66 per Club should be encouraged to meetings at Sha Tin instead (paragraph 16);

season, and the hold more race of Happy Valley

CONFIDENTIAL