§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what opportunities there are for(a) dance, (b) drama, (c) music, (d) art and (e) sport for people (i) under 16 years and (ii) over 60 years which receive funding from his Department. [111099]
§ Mr. Alan HowarthThe Arts Council of England which my Department funds directly (£227 million grant-in-aid in 1999–2000), is dedicated to giving opportunities802W to young people, and supporting lifelong learning. Through initiatives ranging from the Lottery-funded Foundation for Youth Music to Green Candle Dance Company's ArtAge programme, the Arts Council is improving opportunities for all generations to experience a range of art forms. My Department also funds directly Sport England (£34 million grant-in-aid in 1999–2000), which seeks to ensure that opportunities for sport and physical education are available to all, regardless of age, through initiatives such as the Active Schools and Active Community programmes.