§ 36. Mr. Bostonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is aware of the difficulties of financing amateur athletics in this country what is the extent of Government assistance at present available to the Amateur Athletic Association and whether he will give special assistance to help them face their present crisis.
§ Mr. CroslandYes, Sir. Government assistance to the Amateur Athletic Association is at the rate of £26,000 per annum. I am offering in addition a special grant of £5,000 this year to meet the grave financial situation facing the Association. The Byers Committee are examining the long term difficulties of athletics and this additional grant is subject to the agreement we have reached with the A.A.A. that they will consider the implementation of its recommendations in consultation with my Department.
§ Mr. BostonThat is very welcome news. But is my right hon. Friend satisfied that the Association is administratively capable of making the most effective use of this extra money? Can he say whether it is hoped that the Byers Committee will come up with some long-term proposals for a new financial structure for athletics?
§ Mr. CroslandI am satisfied that the Association is able to make use of the grant to which I have referred. As to the longer term, I would hope that the Byers Committee will come up with a very thorough report examining all the matters to which my hon. Friend referred.