HL Deb 12 March 2002 vol 632 c72WA
Baroness Anelay of St Johns

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What conclusions they reached in their discussions with John Stoker of the Charity Commisson on 12 February with regard to the potential implications for sports clubs which may decide to apply for charitable status under the Charity Commission's proposals outlined in Promoting Sport in the Community. [HL3062]

Baroness Blackstone

Following the Minister for Sport's meeting with Mr Stoker, a number of significant improvements are to be made to the Charity Commission's guidance to sports clubs which are considering applying for charitable status. The commission will circulate the improved guidance for comments shortly.

Charitable status will make a number of financial benefits available to local amateur clubs, including mandatory 80 per cent rate relief. The Government expect that this improved guidance together with further practical measures, which are presently being discussed with the commission, will greatly help local clubs in making successful applications.