§ 18. Mr. WattsTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what steps his Department is taking to improve safety and spectator comfort at rugby grounds. [87215]
§ Mr. BanksThe Government are determined that spectators of all sports should be able to enjoy the action in safety and comfort. In April I announced new roles for both Sport England and the Football Licensing Authority in our drive to modernise sports grounds across the country. Sport England is to fund a £10 million improvement scheme over the next four years to help top rugby league and rugby union teams, and the major cricket counties to improve safety at their grounds. In addition, the Football Licensing Authority will be reconstituted as the Sports Grounds Safety Authority and will have an advisory role on safety issues associated with all sports which use outdoor sports stadiums, including rugby. I am sure my hon. Friend will agree that these are welcome developments.