§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what proposals he has to increase the involvement of women in traditionally male-dominated sports; and if he will make a statement.[2709]
§ Mr. BanksThe Government is keen to improve opportunities for women at all levels in sport, whether as participants, competitors, coaches or administrators.
The four Home Country Sports Councils, which are funded by central Government, actively encourage the involvement of women in all sports. Other sporting agencies, such as the Womens Sports Foundation are also doing much to underline the significant achievement of women in sport and help improve levels of participation.
Organisations are required to include ways of encouraging the participation of women when applying for monies from the National Lottery Sports Fund. This is helping to increase participation levels, particularly in those sports that have traditionally been male-dominated. These sports will be carefully monitored to ensure that the increased access is delivered.
The Government will explore ways to build on this and further extend opportunities through a national strategy for sport which will embrace all sections of the community regardless of where they live, social background, age or ability.