Written question asked by Hugh Robertson (Conservative) on Monday, 8 May 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 May 2006. It was answered by Richard Caborn (Labour) on Thursday, 11 May 2006 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Activity Levels

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how activity levels amongst the general population have changed in the last 10 years.

Answer: According to the Health Survey for England (2004) the percentage of the population achieving the recommended levels of physical activity has increased for both men and women, from 32 per cent. in 1997 to 35 per cent. in 2004 for men, and 21 per cent. to 24 per cent. for women. This is based on undertaking a minimum of 30 minutes of at least moderate intensity activity at least five times a week.The new national Taking Part survey will provide robust measurement of the Department's PSA target on increasing participation in sport.

Secondary information