Jockey Club security controller David Twynham yesterday spelt out the reasons for a breakfast meeting with a leading British bookmaker, as some Hong Kong residents pondered the legal implications of overseas betting interests.
Twynham met leading independent bookmaker Victor Chandler in what was described as a frosty encounter.
'My concern is quite straightforward and I explained this to Mr Chandler. The Jockey Club is obligated under the Gambling Ordinance to ensure that no illegal bookmaking activity takes place on our race courses,' Twynham said.
Chandler bet on last Sunday's Queen Elizabeth II Cup race through his Gibraltar office - as he has done on the International Races in the past.
Twynham said: 'In the past, we have given Mr Chandler or his representative a letter outlining the legal position in Hong Kong regarding gambling. This time it was possible to meet Mr Chandler personally.
'Above all, I wanted to ensure that he understood the position, because it would not be our wish to see him in any trouble through a lack of knowledge or ignorance,' said Twynham.
