§ Mr. Denis HowellTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) what discussions he has held with the National Skating Association regarding the need to replace the first-class coaching facilities lost to skating by the closure of the Richmond ice rink; and what proposals he has to ensure the future level of national and international skating skills in this country;
(2) what steps he has taken to assess the effects of the closure of the Richmond ice rink upon the development of the sport of ice skating in the United Kingdom and the training of future international competitors; also upon the public of the loss of these facilities for recreational use; and what steps he is taking to safeguard these interests.
§ Ms. HoeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what discussions have been held with the London borough of Richmond to plan a replacement of ice skating facilities in that area.
§ Mr. AtkinsDespite the closure of Richmond ice rink I understand that training facilities are available elsewhere. I welcome, however, the feasibility study, by a subsidiary of the National Skating Association and funded by the Foundation for Sport and the Arts, into a proposed national ice training centre.
Discussions are still taking place between the London borough of Richmond and the London Edinburgh Trust which owns the former ice rink, concerning an alternative site for an ice rink in the borough. It is for the National Skating Association to consult with the London borough of Richmond and others as appropriate, and I have not, therefore, held discussions with either body.