HC Deb 17 March 1976 vol 907 cc560-1W
36. Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress he has made in giving priority in the allocation of financial support to recreational projects in those inner urban areas which are lacking in such provision.

Mr. Freeson

In preparing its estimates for 1976–77 the Sports Council has taken account of our policy as regards assistance to recreational projects in areas of special need, and my Department has suggested to the Council procedures for the identification of such projects.

Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he has taken to ensure the availability of regular statistics about local authority revenue spending on sport and recreation.

Mr. Denis Howell

My Department has proposed revision of the annual expenditure returns by local authorities in order to improve the data available on sport and recreation, and the proposals are to be discussed with the local authority associations.

Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list those shared projects designed to enable the community at large to enjoy sports and recreation facilities provided at schools which have come into use during the past three years.

Mr. Denis Howell

This information is not available centrally. My hon. Friend might care to consult the Sports Council.