§ 2. Mr. Selbyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what effect the construction of motorways and other roads for which he is responsible has had on the sporting facilities for young people in Glasgow: and what steps are being 428 taken to replace those that have been built over.
§ The Minister of State, Scottish Office (Mr. Gregor MacKenzie)My right hon. Friend is not aware that any roads for which he has responsibility have affected sports facilities in Glasgow. All roads within the former city of Glasgow are the responsibility of Strathclyde regional council. It is for that council and the district council to secure the provision of adequate recreational facilities in the area.
§ Mr. SelbyIs the Minister aware that in Govan and the neighbouring constituency represented by the Secretary of State for Scotland we had an area known as"Fifty pitches ", and that those pitches have been removed so that a motorway can be built and been replaced by eight pitches in the neighbouring constituency and four in Govan? Is he aware that the football pitches in Plantation Park in Govan have been removed and that two have been provided in another area, but are not much used? Although kickabout areas have been provided, they include no dressing-room facilities, and there is a waiting list—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Gentleman is making an Adjournment speech.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Gentleman's question has finished. He has asked it.
§ Mr. MacKenzieIn answer to the first part of my hon. Friend's question, I know the"Fifty pitches ". Indeed, it may come as a surprise to the House to learn that, when I was several stones lighter, I used to play on those pitches from time to time. I share my hon. Friend's concern about the loss of these valuable amenities, and I hope that the local authorities will do all that they can to make up the losses. I shall certainly pass on to them my hon. Friend's concern about the losses.