§ Mr. McGuireasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what requests for financial assistance for the provision of recreational and sporting facilities, indoor and outdoor, his Department has received from the Skelmersdale Development Corporation; what assistance was offered; and if he will make a statement on the present needs of this community for such facilities now and in the future.
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe answer to the first two parts of the question is "none". The provision of recreational and sporting facilities in the new town is primarily the responsibilty of the local authorities. The development corporation co-operates fully with the local authorities on the planning and provision of such facilities and may, with my right hon. Friend's consent make contributions to the costs of the local authorities and other bodies concerned with the provision of amenities.