§ Mr. Denis Howellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions were held with the chairman of the Sports Council before the resignation of the director general of the Sports Council; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneI frequently meet the chairman of the Sports Council to discuss a wide range of matters including, at times, the management of the council. I was therefore made aware of the possibility of the resignation of the director general before it was formally announced.
§ Mr. Denis Howellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list his responsibilities in relation to the Sports Council; and whether he has any responsibilities in relation to the appointment and dismissal of staff of the council.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneThe Sports Council pursues its Royal Charter objectives through moneys voted to it by Parliament.
As the right hon. Gentleman knows, the council may appoint staff under the terms of article 14 of the Royal Charter, subject only to seeking the approval of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State where the appointments of a director and administrator are concerned. The power of my right hon. Friend in relation to dismissal is confined by article 7(f) to appointed members of the council.