HC Deb 03 July 1950 vol 477 cc10-1
13. Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

asked the Minister of Works whether he will now grant more licences for the repair of cricket and football stands.

Mr. Stokes

I can now allow a few small schemes for work to clubs and places of entertainment, including the reinstatement of damaged stands, provided that no scarce materials, particularly softwood, are required, the cost is not great, and my officers are satisfied that the grant of the licence will not have an adverse effect on the local housing programme. While the need to restrict the amount of miscellaneous work remains it will still be necessary for me to reject any such schemes which involve substantial expenditure.

Mr. Mallalieu

Is the Minister aware that this decision, provided that it does not interfere with housing, will give pleasure to a lot of people, and that that pleasure will be doubled if he will at once grant a licence to Huddersfield Town?

Sir W. Wakefield

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this easement will mean that many clubs will now be able to obtain dressing room accommodation for their players and accommodation for their groundsmen also, because such licences have been refused in the past and it would be very helpful if the statement made by the Minister were to include these facilities?

Mr. Stokes

I do not wish to be too specific today. There are a very large number of small applications and I have only a limited amount of funds available, but I will certainly bear in mind what the hon. Member has said.

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