§ Mr. Bestasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the policy of the Sports Council regarding the funding of chess; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TraceyThe Sports Council is given powers under its royal charter to foster the knowledge and practice of sport and physical recreation. Chess is not judged by the council to be a physical recreation and is thus not recognised for grant or services. I regard that judgment as one for the council itself to take. Some chess bodies are funded by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science.