§ 24. Mr. John Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will review his 438 decision in Scottish Education Department Circular 802 (IV/2) that the Scottish Education Department will not make grants for the provision of sports facilities after 10th June, 1971.
§ Mr. MonroThis circular described the transitional arrangements pending the establishment of the new executive Scottish Sports Council which will be responsible for grants for sport from April, 1972. My right hon. Friend is still making grants in respect of applications received by 10th June, 1971, which satisfy the conditions of the grant scheme and I expect that his expenditure on sports grants in the current financial year will be a least as much as in 1970–71.
§ Mr. SmithDoes the hon. Gentleman appreciate that as from 10th June, 1971, applications from district councils for the provision of sports facilities in their areas cannot be considered until 1st April, 1972? Why has there to be this gap when no application will be considered in the building of desirable public works which would provide employment for Scotland and improve social facilities? Is not this a hold-up caused by a bureaucratic decision?
§ Mr. MonroAll the money available for district council and other schemes is fully committed this year. As soon as the Sports Council has met, which I hope will be shortly, it will be able to draw up its schemes and receive applications. I doubt whether there will be any delay in work by local authorities or voluntary sports organisations because of this decision.