HC Deb 08 February 1984 vol 53 cc878-9
17. Ms. Harman

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what correspondence he has had relating to the proposed new boundaries of the Greater London regional sports council.

Mr. Macfarlane

My Department has received 59 letters commenting on these proposals.

Ms. Harman

As nearly all of those 59 letters from London sports organisations are likely to be critical of the arbitrary proposal to redraw the boundaries, may I ask the hon. Gentleman if he will play ball with the London sports organisations and reconsider his decision, and perhaps agree to meet a delegation from them so that they can put him on the right track?

Mr. Macfarlane

I cannot give the hon. Lady that assurance. These are matters for the Sports Council and for the Greater London and South-East Regional Council on Sport and Recreation. It is not for me to impose decisions on the regional councils.

Mr. Spearing

Is it not a fact that within these boundaries is the Crystal Palace sports complex, which is owned and managed by the GLC? Is it not also a fact that the Government's proposals will make it impossible to run a London-wide administration, not only for that complex but for others, which should be built elsewhere in London for Londoners? Is this not an affront to the people of London, whatever their normal political persuasions?

Mr. Macfarlane

The hon. Gentleman has not completed his research. Crystal Palace is a national sports centre and it also provides some local facilities. It is jointly funded by the Sports Council and the GLC. It is not specifically for local authorities; it is, as I say, a national sports centre as well.

Mr. Brandon-Bravo

Is there any link between these proposals and a possible attempt at a more equitable sharing out of grant-aid?

Mr. Macfarlane

I cannot give my hon. Friend that assurance.