§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what representations he has received urging him to make chess an olympic sport; and if he will make a statement. [8551]
§ Mr. Banks[holding answer 16 July 1997]: I am not aware we have received any, but I do know how popular chess is and am pleased that my Department is able to provide support to the game in England through the British Chess Federation. I have received a number of representations from hon. Members and members of the public who are concerned that chess is not an activity recognised by the English Sports Council and the Lottery Sports Fund. I am sympathetic to the difficulties this creates, particularly in respect of providing access to additional sources of funding. The English Sports Council's recognition rules are kept under review and revised from time to time. The question of chess becoming an olympic sport is, however, a matter for the International Olympic Committee.