Written question asked by Jim Cunningham (Labour) on Monday, 16 June 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 June 2008. It was answered by Andy Burnham (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 June 2008 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Physical Activity: Elderly

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) what steps the Government have taken to encourage pensioners to take more physical exercise;

Answer: [holding answer 19 June 2008]: The Government are committed to increasing participation in sport and physical activity.On 6 June this year, we announced a package designed to extend opportunities to swim and to maximise the health benefits of wider participation in swimming—particularly for those aged over 60.The many benefits swimming can bring are reflected in the cross-Government nature of the initiative, with contributions from the Department of Health, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Communities and Local Government, the Department for Children, Schools and Families and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.Over the summer, we will work in close consultation with the Local Government Association, the Amateur Swimming Association, Sport England and others to develop the details of the scheme.

Secondary information