§ 12. Mr. Eric Illsley (Barnsley, Central)What steps he is taking to encourage the greater distribution of national lottery money to sporting projects in Barnsley. [83420]
§ The Minister for Sport (Mr. Tony Banks)Following the coalfields lottery conference, we are conducting a special investigation into how extra help can be given to lottery applicants in coalfield and former coalfield areas, including Barnsley. More generally, measures introduced in the National Lottery Act 1998 will ensure that lottery funding is distributed more equitably across the country. Barnsley is one of Sport England's priority areas, and is able to apply for extra funding for sporting projects in the area.
§ Mr. IllsleyMy hon. Friend will be aware that applications from Barnsley, or from the Barnsley area, have been few and far between. In the case of the Dodworth miners' welfare, following the submission of an application, the sponsors were advised to revise the application and increase the amount claimed from the lottery, only for the application to be rejected. Can my hon. Friend give me some idea of when he hopes to publish the findings of the special investigation?
§ Mr. BanksI understand the point. That is precisely why we are conducting special investigations into areas such as Barnsley. The findings are due to be published very shortly. We are critically aware of the fact that areas such as Barnsley have suffered from the lottery in not having a fair distribution of resources. That is something that we are determined to deal with.