§ Mr. Dudley Smithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many football grounds in Great Britain now have rented boxes as part of their facilities; and whether he will take steps encourage the extension of such amenities.
§ Mr. Denis HowellI regret that this information is not available, not even from the Football League or the Football Association.
I frequently urge football clubs to improve their facilities, and have tried to help them in a number of ways. But it is for each club to decide whether it wishes, and can afford, to provide rented boxes as against other priorities. I am pleased to say that the provision of such facilities is certainly on the increase, but I trust that improvements designed for the comfort of the traditional football supporter will always receive the highest priority.