Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Jonathan Shaw (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 24 April 2006 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

National Lottery

Question: My right hon. Friend is quite right to distance herself from the decision, but assessment is important when we look at the long-term viability of capital projects such as Buckmore park in my constituency. Sport England awarded it a grant, but did not talk to the local authority. When I asked the National Audit Office to investigate, the papers on the decision were missing. Is it not vital that there is a clear assessment of long-term viability so that a project that is welcomed by the community is sustainable?

Answer: Again, my hon. Friend is absolutely right. It is worth taking this opportunity to reflect on the fact that, on average, every single parliamentary constituency in England has about 50 lottery-funded projects, enriching the lives of those in the local community and bringing important local value. Every single Member of this House has a role as an advocate for the lottery in their local community, as he is.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 445 c346
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Disadvantaged National Lottery Local government Poverty Social conditions
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk