§ Dr. GibsonTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if he will assess the advantages of permitting restricted standing room areas in new football grounds. [3809]
§ Mr. BanksI believe we are striking the right balance in providing some of the most modern all-seater facilities in the world at our top clubs and allowing some standing accommodation at lower division grounds subject to stringent safety requirements. The Government is committed to delivering essential football ground safety improvements following the Taylor Report on the Hillsborough disaster. The £55 million funding package announced recently to assist the Football Trust with Taylor-related safety work demonstrates our commitment to this.