§ 65. Mr. SUTCLIFFEasked the Minister of Health how many playing fields have been provided by local authorities in each of the last five years; and what steps arc being taken by the Ministry to encourage local authorities to make such provision?
§ Sir K. WOODThe acreage of open spaces for which loans have been sanctioned in the last five years is 2,745, 1,523, 1,454, 4,440 and 4,732 respectively. Of this acreage, about one-third is reserved for letting to clubs, and a large part of the remainder is used for organised games. I am always prepared to entertain and do in fact encourage applica- 1432 tions for loans for the purpose from local authorities. It is part of their duty in the preparation of town planning schemes to review the need for playing fields.
§ Mr. BELLENGERIs the right hon. Gentleman in a position to contribute towards the expenses in connection with these playing fields?
§ Sir K. WOODThat is a matter for the local authorities.