Mr. R. C. Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will have consultations with the British Chess Federation with a view to ensuring the continuation of the annual Hastings Chess Congress.
§ Mr. Denis HowellGrant aid to the British Chess Federation is at present provided by the Department of Education and Science, but the Hastings Chess Congress does not receive assistance because it is not organised by the federation. I have asked the Sports Council to consider taking over responsibility for grant aiding chess; and I hope that means will be found of ensuring that the annual chess congress continues to be held.