HL Deb 11 April 2002 vol 633 c116WA
Lord Smith of Leigh

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What plans they have to reduce the burden of taxation and other regulations on voluntary sporting clubs. [HL3605]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

The Charity Commission announced in November 2001 that it would recognise as charitable "the promotion of community participation in healthy recreation by the provision of facilities for particular sports"—conferring the full range of charity tax relief. ThePromoting Sport in the Community consultation document launched in November 2001 outlined a possible additional tax package and sought views on the best way to support community amateur sports clubs. Decisions will be made as part of the normal Budget process.

Baroness Anelay of St Johns

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many community amateur sports clubs responded to the consultation document Promoting Sport in the Community; how many of those respondents answered the question posed as to whether they agreed with the Government's assessment that the Charity Commission's proposals which now include "healthy recreation" as a charitable activity meant that the Inland Revenue tax breaks were no longer needed; and how many of those clubs which gave an answer replied "No". [HL3606]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

Over 2,400 responses have been received to thePromoting Sport in the Community consultation document. Decisions will be made as part of the normal Budget process, with regard to the range of responses received. A summary of responses will be made publicly available at the time of any announcement.