Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Grassroots Football: Feltham and Heston

12 May 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Seema Malhotra Labour (Co-op) Feltham and Heston

Culture, Media & SportMental Health

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Seema Malhotra raised concerns about grassroots football: feltham and heston in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Seema Malhotra addressed the impact of COVID-19 on grassroots football, highlighting its importance for community engagement and mental health.
  • Malhotra expressed condolences to the family of Jordan Banks, who was killed while playing football.
  • The Football Association reported that over 14 million people play grassroots football in England annually, contributing 10 billion to society.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Seema Malhotra Labour (Co-op) Feltham and Heston

Seema Malhotra addressed the detrimental impact of COVID-19 on football, particularly focusing on grassroots levels. She expressed deep condolences to Jordan Banks' family who was tragically killed while playing football. Grassroots football is essential for community engagement and mental health benefits. The Football Association’s report highlighted that over 14 million people play grassroots football in England annually contributing £10 billion to society each year. Malhotra emphasised the need for financial support, guidance on mental health issues, stable home grounds, and inclusive national strategies to ensure no one is left behind. She also raised concerns about local parkruns struggling to restart post-lockdown.

Other contributors (1)
  • Nigel Evans Con Chorley

    Expressed condolences on behalf of the Speaker and Parliament for Jordan Banks' tragic death.

Government Response

Nigel Huddleston

Minister Nigel Huddleston congratulated Seema Malhotra on raising important issues regarding grassroots sport, especially football. He expressed condolences for Jordan Banks' family and acknowledged the role of sport in community life and mental health benefits. The Government has provided financial support through various funds like Sport England’s £220 million emergency fund and the Football Foundation charity's investment of £70 million annually, with additional funding commitments of £550 million over ten years for 2030 FIFA World Cup facilities. Huddleston discussed challenges around club stability and racism in sport, emphasising actions such as the draft Online Harms Bill to combat online abuse. He pledged continued support for grassroots sports post-pandemic.

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