§ 21. Colonel Stoddart-Scottasked the Minister of Education if it is his intention to re-establish the National Fitness Council; and what steps he intends to take other than through local education authorities to encourage physical education amongst adults.
§ Mr. HardmanNo, Sir. Grants under Section 3 of the Physical Training and Recreation Act, 1937, are made through my Department to local authorities and voluntary organisations in aid of capital expenditure, and to certain national organisations for advisory services. The arrangements are set out in a memorandum, of which I am sending the hon Member a copy.
§ Colonel Stoddart-ScottDoes the Parliamentary Secretary think that the local education authority is the suitable agency for dealing with such subjects as the establishment of bowling greens at working men's clubs, which were previously dealt with by the National Fitness Council?
§ Mr. HardmanYes, Sir, I do think the local authority is a suitable agent for this purpose. The further education pamphlet just issued by the Ministry shows that local authorities are expected to avail themselves of their powers, and to provide this kind of social recreation.
§ Mr. K. LindsayWill my hon. Friend refrain from re-establishing this council, because it supersedes the local education authority and duplicates the grant?
§ Mr. HardmanWe see no reason for establishing two advisory councils.
§ Mr. AustinDoes the Ministry of Education make a grant in this connection to the National Association of Boys' Clubs?
§ Mr. HardmanYes, a grant is made for that purpose.