HC Deb 18 March 1996 vol 274 cc5-6
4. Mr. Touhig

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received on the establishment of a Welsh national lottery charities board. [19376]

Mr. Richards

None.

Mr. Touhig

I am sure that the Minister knows that we have separate arts and sports councils that distribute lottery funds in Wales. Would it be appropriate to examine the possibility of setting up a Welsh national lottery charities board that would take especial account of the needs of Wales and of charitable organisations in Wales? Would that not be worth while, and should the Minister not consult on it?

Mr. Richards

I have already said that no one has made any representations to my Department on the issue. From that, I conclude that the current system is working rather well. I was fascinated to find the hon. Gentleman suddenly taking an interest in national lottery issues, but then I discovered that he has joined a 21-member Labour party committee examining the national lottery. Such committees are intended to undermine the good works of others and are known in the Labour party as slangos.