§ Mr. Roseasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what action he has taken or proposes to take to assist the provision of sporting facilities in the North-West area, with particular reference to Manchester.
§ Mr. CroslandOffers of grant under the Physical Training and Recreation Act to local voluntary sports bodies in Lancashire and Cheshire since January, 1964, have totalled £127,981, including £11,405 to bodies in Manchester. Increasing use is being made of this scheme for assistance. The main responsibility for providing sports facilities lies with the local authorities. I have no powers to give specific assistance to local authorities, but I am discussing with representatives of the local authority associations arrangements for encouraging consultation and collaboration between the local authorities on a wide geographical basis for the provision of sports facilities.