HC Deb 02 April 1998 vol 309 cc627-8W
Mr. Öpik

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to provide public money to support the work of the Football Association of Wales; and if he will make a statement. [36679]

Mr. Ron Davies

Central Government funding for sport is channelled through the Sports Council for Wales. In 1997–98, the Sports Council's grant to the Football Association of Wales is £48,477. This will increase to £52,727 in 1998–99.

Football is also benefiting greatly from the National Lottery. Since the Sports Council began distributing funds in 1995, over £1.9 million has been awarded to 26 community-based schemes throughout Wales.

Mr. Öpik

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to support the work of the Football Association of Wales Football in the Community Charitable Trust in the future; and if he will make a statement. [36678]

Mr. Ron Davies

None. Welsh Office support for sport is channelled through the Sports Council for Wales, who are better placed to decide priorities for funding.

Mr. Öpik

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what financial provisions he will make to assist the Football Association of Wales to complete the works required by the Taylor report in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [36676]

Mr. Ron Davies

The Welsh Office has no funds available to complete Taylor-related work in Wales. Wales's three Football League clubs, will, however, be able to apply to the Football Trust for funding to assist them in implementing the recommendations of the Taylor Report.

Mr. Öpik

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what public money was given in 1997–98 and in each of the three previous years to the Football Association of Wales to support the work of the Football Association of Wales Football in the Community Charitable Trust; and if he will make a statement. [36677]

Mr. Ron Davies

None.