§ Charlotte AtkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what steps his Department takes to promote chess among children of school age. [67057]
§ Ms Estelle Morris[holding answer 26 January 1999]: The Department recognises the educational value of chess and other non-physical games both for their ability to help the acquisition of cognitive thinking skills, and of course, for the enjoyment they provide. We very much welcome the opportunities which many schools provide for their pupils to take part in such activities. It is open to schools to offer such activities as extra-curricular options, which we see as an important part of a broad and balanced education.