HC Deb 31 January 2000 vol 343 cc473-4W
13. Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to seek an amendment of the law to simplify the application process for lottery grants. [105949]

Mr. Chris Smith

None. My officials are, however, working with distributors to find ways of simplifying the Lottery application process to ensure that it is user-friendly and that forms are written in plain language. We already have in place the popular Awards for All scheme, which is a straightforward way for community groups to apply for grants of £500 to £5,000. One simple application form covers charities, arts, sport and heritage groups. The Quality, Efficiency and Standards Team which I established is currently looking at how the costs of making a Lottery application can be obtained.

22. Mr. Miller

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what contribution the lottery is making towards encouraging the playing of competitive sporting fixtures in schools. [105958]

Kate Hoey

We have asked Sport England to ensure that arranging inter-school competitive fixtures is a key part of the job description of the Active School Sports Co-ordinators. Active Schools Sports Co-ordinators is a new Sport England initiative which is being supported by the Lottery Sports Fund with additional support expected to come from partnership funding, including NOF. Detailed proposals for the initiative are being drawn up in conjunction with key partners.