OpenLegislation

Explanatory note

Original text. Later amendments are not shown.

(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order removes certain burdens from the greyhound betting industry and from the operators of dog tracks.

First, article 3 allows the operator of a dog racecourse to make available permanent structures to bookmakers on the track, provided that the permanent structures are only used (a) in connection with betting on events elsewhere than on the track; and (b) at times when racing is taking place on that track.

Secondly, article 4 of the Order allows the taking of bets on a dog race by means of a totalisator in advance of the day of the race.

Thirdly, article 5 and Schedule 1 make provision for inter-track totalisator betting. That is to say for bets to be taken by means of the totalisator on one day racecourse in respect of a race or a combination of races run on another dog racecourse. Such inter-track betting by means of totalisators is permitted only when it is in accordance with a licensed inter-track betting scheme. Provision is made for the licensing of such schemes (in relation to which article 9 makes a transitional provision to deal with the reorganisation of local government in Scotland).

Fourthly, article 6 of the Order permits the operator of a dog racecourse to have an interest in bookmaking on that track in respect of events elsewhere than on that track.

Fifthly, article 7 makes a number of lesser changes:

a

it removes the present statutory limit on deductions that a tote operator may make from bets placed with him;

b

it makes provision for the rounding up and down of winnings payable to those placing winning bets by means of a totalisator;

c

it enables a totalisator on a dog racecourse to be operated without a local authority accountant being present, though: the accountant still has to be given advance notification of when the totalisator is to be operated; and the tote operator’s reporting obligations to the accountant are extended; and

d

it extends the period which has to be allowed for the collection of winnings on bets made by means of a totalisator, in the light of the new facilities for advance and inter-track totalisator bets.

Article 8 and Schedule 2 make certain consequential repeals of enactments.