On 18 June 1959, G.C. Ligertwood was appointed as Royal Commissioner to inquire into and report upon betting within the State on horse racing in or beyond the State, including with respect to that subject matter, but without limiting its generality:

(a) characteristics, features and operation of existing legislation, and of control and administration thereunder;

(b) effects and influence of or under existing legislation, including the Betting Control Act 1954-1957, and the Bookmakers Betting Tax Act 1954-1956, upon bodies and persons interested in, or connected with, horse racing or betting thereon; and

(c) undesirable features, results and influences of, and practices and trends under, existing legislation, control, or administration;

and to make recommendation for legislative amendments or administrative improvements in relation to any of the foregoing matters.