HC Deb 06 February 2001 vol 362 cc445-6W
Mr. Donohoe

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) what proportion of successful applications to each Lottery distribution body came from each Scottish local authority area in each year since the National Lottery began; [148282]

(2) what proportion of applications made to each lottery distributor from each Scottish local authority area have been successful in each year since the National Lottery began; [148280]

(3) what proportion of the money awarded by each Lottery distribution body went to each Scottish local authority area in each year since the National Lottery began; [148283]

(4) what proportion of applications to each Lottery distribution body came from each Scottish local authority in each year since the National Lottery began. [148281]

Kate Hoey

We have contacted the National Lottery distributing bodies to request the information required, and I will write to my hon. Friend as soon as it is available, placing copies of my letter in the Libraries of both Houses.

Mr. Donohoe

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what action he will take to reduce the geographical differences in the distribution of Lottery grants in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [148284]

Kate Hoey

The Government are keen to see all parts of the United Kingdom receive a fair share of Lottery funding. Reforms introduced through the National Lottery Act 1998 are designed to encourage this. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State also issued new policy directions which direct distributors to ensure that all parts of the country have access to funding, and to take into account the need to reduce economic and social deprivation.

Ministers in the Scottish Executive can make directions and take other decisions about the Scottish operations of Lottery distributors where they relate to devolved policy areas. My Department and Lottery distributors commissioned research into the impact of the Lottery on the coalfields and other areas of low take-up and my right hon. Friend has established an action group to take forward the report's recommendations. Lottery distributors in Scotland participate in the work of the group, which also has the support of the Scottish Executive.