Mr. Gareth R. ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what action he is taking to improve the financial accountability of sports governing bodies. [50233]
§ Mr. BanksThis Department's funding for sport is channelled through the United Kingdom and English Sports Councils. The Sports Councils make decisions on awards to sports governing bodies and must ensure that organisations in receipt of funding are administered in an efficient manner and have rigorous financial controls in place. The Councils are required to give assurances to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State to this effect.
The Councils carry out an audit programme of governing bodies to monitor performance. In addition, the Councils undertake advice and support activities, including conferences, seminars and workshops to help with corporate governance, financial planning and objective setting.