§ Mrs. DeanTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) if she will visit the National Football Centre development near Burton upon Trent to view the construction already in place. [84627]
§ Mrs. Dean(2) when she(a) last met and (b) next plans to meet the Football Association to discuss the development of the National Football Centre. [84628]
§ Mr. CabornThe Government appreciates that the present uncertainty about the completion of the National Football Centre has created some concern, both locally and among those with a general interest in the future success of the England team. However, this is entirely a matter for the Football Association. Neither I nor my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State have discussed the matter with the FA, and Ministers have no plans to visit the site. The Government's priority is the continued development of grass roots football, which my Department funds through the Football Foundation. The arrangements made for the coaching of elite players must remain the responsibility of football itself.