§ Charlotte AtkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to consult on the new set of initiatives in health, education and the environment to be funded by the National Lottery through the New Opportunities Fund. [61785]
§ Mr. Chris SmithToday I have published and laid before Parliament a consultation document, 'New Links for the Lottery'. Copies are widely available from my Department and through The Stationery Office.
I believe that the Lottery's long-term success depends on retaining and reinforcing public confidence in its power to address the issues that most concern people across the UK. The initiatives we are proposing—cancer prevention, detection, treatment and care; green spaces and sustainable communities; and community access to lifelong learning—demonstrate our commitment to see the benefits of Lottery money more widely spread. The document also contains proposals to increase the number of summer school places for school children, to increase the benefits to people with disabilities and to build on the contribution the Lottery can make to volunteering and community involvement. I believe that our proposals will receive widespread support, and I look forward to receiving views on how best to take them forward.