§ Dr. PughTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what figures she has collated on spending by local authorities in England on sport and recreation facilities since 1997; and if she will make a statement. [10026]
§ Tessa JowellLocal authorities are key providers of sport and recreation and play a central role in the delivery of sport in and for the community. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions publishes annual figures on spending by local authorities on sport and recreation. Since 1997 local authorities have spent over £549 million on new construction, conversion and renovation of sport and recreation facilities, which includes a substantial investment from the national lottery, to improve facilities for local communities.