162 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is a prohibition here on the purchase of British premium bonds by Irish citizens living in the State (details supplied). [9130/07]

In Ireland, the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956-86 cover gaming and lotteries other than the National Lottery, which is covered by the National Lottery Act 1986, with the Betting Act, 1931 governing all matters relating to betting. In general, all forms of gaming are illegal in this jurisdiction except where specifically permitted.

Sections 21, 26 and 34 of the 1956 Gaming and Lotteries Act disallow the promotion and purchase in this country of tickets for a foreign lottery. This restriction applies to all lotteries in any country outside of the Irish State.