Voluntary Sports Clubs

HC Deb 17 July 1997 vol 298 c316W

Mr. Nigel Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the estimated cost of granting mandatory rate relief to voluntary sports clubs in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement. [8008]

Mr. Paul Murphy

The estimated cost of granting mandatory rate relief to sports and recreation facilities in Northern Ireland in terms of rate revenue forgone is approximately £1.3 million in the year 1997–98.

Mr. Nigel Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what Government proposals exist to harmonise rate relief for voluntary sports clubs in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement. [8007]

Mr. Murphy

Rate relief for voluntary sports clubs is harmonised throughout Northern Ireland by virtue of the provisions set out in Article 31 of the 1977 Rates (NI) Order as amended by the Article 3 of the 1979 Rates (NI) Amendment Order.