§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will take steps to improve safety at cricket grounds; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenI have been asked to reply.
All cricket grounds which have been identified as providing accommodation for more than 10,000 spectators have been designated as sports grounds requiring safety certificates under the Safety of Sports Grounds Act 1975. Stands or other accommodation which can hold at least 500 spectators for viewing under cover at grounds which are not designated under the 1975 Act are subject to safety certification by local authorities under part III of the Fire Safety and Safety of Places of Sport Act 1987. Local authorities have, in consequence wide powers to secure the safety of spectators.