The original post seems to suggest that parents do not have a responsibility for their children, the state does. That is a viewpoint to which I cannot subscribe. While I agree that the morality of siting betting shops in poorer areas is questionable their presence does not excuse a parent for misusing limited funds. I feel that there are too many people who look for excuses for their own selfish behaviour. We all have to accept responsibility for our actions rather than blame the greed or immorality of others.