§ Mr. AtkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage (1) what consultations she has had with the Department of the Environment concerning the planning implications for playing fields and sports clubs arising from the recent judgment against Thames Ditton lawn tennis club; [12820]
(2) what discussions she has had with (a) the Lawn Tennis Association, (b) the Central Council of Physical Recreation, (c) the National Playing Fields Association and (d) the Sports Council about the implications of the recent judgment against Thames Ditton lawn tennis club; and if she will make a statement; [12815]
(3) if she will investigate the implications for sports clubs of the recent judgment against Thames Ditton lawn tennis club; [12816]
(4) what assessment her Department has made of the implications of the recent judgment against Thames Ditton lawn tennis club; [12817]
(5) what steps she intends to take to remedy the problems for sports clubs relating to the recent judgment against Thames Ditton lawn tennis club. [12818]
§ Mr. SproatI have looked very carefully indeed at the problems experienced by the Thames Ditton lawn tennis club. My Department has had lengthy discussions with both the Sports Council and with the Department of the Environment, about the recent judgments against an application for a renewal of its lease. I have also examined the possibility of listing the club, which has not proved to be justifiable.
743WWhile I understand that many people are concerned about the decision to demolish the site, the land is privately owned, and the Government cannot intervene in the disposal of an individual's private property in these circumstances.
I would encourage the club to continue to discuss with the English Sports Council how best to secure its long term future.