HC Deb 01 July 1968 vol 767 cc188-9W
Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what grants and other assistance was provided by his Department towards the promotion of swimming in 1967; and what were the comparable figures in 1966 and 1965, respectively.

1965 1966 1967
£ £ £
(a) Towards expenditure on administration and coaching:
Scottish Amateur Swimming Association 1,675 1,047 1,664
Young Swimmers Athletic Union 900 1,198 1,322
(b)Towards expenditure on international events:
Scottish Amateur Swimming Association 340
(c) Towards capital expenditure by district councils and local voluntary bodies 4,980 5,020
Total 2,575 7,225 8,346

In addition, my Department has cooperated with the Scottish Council of Physical Recreation and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents in promoting and publicising "Learn to Swim Week" in each of these years.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to improve the facilities and opportunities for international swimming contests in Scotland.

Mr. Ross

The provision of swimming facilities is primarily the responsibility of the local authorities. The first indoor swimming pool in Scotland of a size suitable for international contests (165 ft. long) was opened by East Kilbride Town Council this year. Another pool of this size is now being built by Edinburgh Corporation and will be available for the 1970 Commonwealth Games. Responsibility for arranging international swim-ing contests in Scotland rests with the Scottish Amateur Swimming Association as the Scottish national governing body of the sport.