HC Deb 24 February 1971 vol 812 cc561-2
23. Mr. Hugh D. Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland to how many local voluntary organisations he gives direct financial assistance for community purposes.

Mr. Edward Taylor

In 1970 capital grants were made to 23 local community associations, 112 local sports clubs and 30 local youth organisations to help them to provide new or improve existing facilities.

Mr. Brown

Could the hon. Gentleman not break with the conservative traditions of this Government, and indeed of previous Governments, and sponsor or assist, in co-operation with local authorities, the setting up of pilot schemes in community work in the light of the importance of community councils, even under Wheatley?

Mr. Taylor

I am very much aware of the hon. Gentleman's great interest in this matter, and I assure him that I shall bear very much in mind what he said.