HC Deb 05 July 1999 vol 334 c382W
Mr. Nigel Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will assess the advantages and disadvantages of allowing voluntary sports clubs to become eligible for charity status. [88747]

Mr. Banks

The Charity Commission is currently undertaking a review of the Recreational Charities Act 1958, in which I am taking a close interest with Home Office colleagues who are responsible for charity issues. The outcome of the review will inform a subsequent public consultation about the charitable status of community based sports clubs. I understand that Sport England will make the case for a change to enable sports clubs to benefit from the many advantages that charitable status can offer. The Government will consider carefully the responses to the consultation.