HC Deb 09 November 1998 vol 319 cc11-2
10. Mr. Howard Flight (Arundel and South Downs)

What representations he has received regarding the Lodge Hill residential centre in West Sussex. [57251]

The Minister for Sport (Mr. Tony Banks)

I was quite stunned to note that I have received no representations about the Lodge Hill residential centre, not even from the hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Flight

I was under the impression that Lord Cowdrey has made certain representations to the Minister for Sport. Lodge Hill is a youth centre in West Sussex that has provided residential courses for hundreds of thousands of students. The county council can no longer afford to maintain it, so it is being set up on a charitable basis. Will the Minister consider, within the powers available to him, some back-up support from lottery funding, and also the possibility of the centre being used in connection with the Government's new deal facilities?

Mr. Banks

I will certainly consult Lord Cowdrey, whom I see pretty regularly, to ascertain what has happened to his letter. Perhaps it was lost in the post.

I am aware of the centre—it provides good outward bound courses, including canoeing and a rope course. I am a great supporter of canoeing and I have often contemplated hanging myself, so it is clear that I am much in support of the centre. I suggest that the hon. Gentleman talks to me, and we will try to contrive a lottery application.