HC Deb 15 June 1967 vol 748 c767
40. Mr. Goodhart

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what action he is taking to provide additional facilities in public buildings for badminton clubs, in view of the shortage of facilities for badminton in many areas following the closure of the Territorial Army drill halls.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

The Regional Sports Council is concerned to secure the fullest possible use of all existing facilities suitable to sport. In addition it has made a special survey of surplus drill halls and is drawing the attention of local authorities to those suitable for purchase as multi-purpose sports centres.

Mr. Goodhart

As the Government are responsible for the policy of closing drill halls, will the Department now issue a circular to local education authorities suggesting that wherever possible they make school halls available to badminton clubs to meet the serious shortage in many areas?

Mr. Roberts

Action of that order has been taken, but I will look into the possibility of drawing to the attention of local authorities what the hon. Member has said.