HC Deb 08 April 1976 vol 909 cc274-6W
Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what is the total estimated rate bill to be paid by sport and recreational clubs in 1976 in England and Wales;

(2) what is the total sum involved in the cost to local authorities in 1975 of providing rate relief to sporting and recreational clubs.

Mr. Denis Howell

I regret that this information is not available.

Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the total sum involved in the cost to local authorities in 1975 of providing cash grants to sporting and recreational clubs.

Mr. Denis Howell

This information is not available centrally.

Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will outline the powers and responsibilities of the Minister of State specially responsible for sport and recreation for the provision of sports and recreation facilities throughout the country.

Mr. Denis Howell

I exercise on behalf of my right hon. Friend his powers in relation to the Sports Council, the Countryside Commission, the British Waterways Board, the regional water authorities and National Park committees and boards—all of which provide or assist the provision of facilities for sport and recreation. In addition I take the lead on the co-ordination of policies and promotion of research in this field in England; and co-operate with Scottish and Welsh Ministers on broader aspects of policy for Great Britain.

Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what is the responsibility of parish councils in respect of the provision and financing of sport and recreational facilities in their areas;

(2) what is the responsibility of municipal authorities in respect of the provision and financing of sport and recreation facilities in their areas, including the granting of rate relief and cash grants;

(3) what is the responsibility of district councils in respect of the provision and financing of sport and recreational facilities in their areas, including the granting of rate relief and cash grants.

Mr. Denis Howell

Identical discretionary powers to provide facilities for sport and recreation and to assist voluntary organisations in the provision of such facilities are given to all local authorities in England and Wales, including parish councils, under the Physical Training and Recreation Act 1937. Rating authorities —councils of districts, metropolitan districts and London boroughs—have discretionary powers to reduce or remit rates on premises of voluntary clubs used for recreational purposes under Section 40(5) of the General Rate Act 1967.