Grassroots Sport 2026-02-26

2026-02-26

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Charlie Dewhirst Con
Bridlington and The Wolds
Context
The question follows a government announcement of £400 million for grassroots sports facilities.
What steps her Department is taking to support grassroots sport, following the recent commitment of £400 million?
The Government believes in the power of grassroots sport. We recently committed a further £400 million to grassroots sport facilities so that every child and young person have the chance to live out their dreams. This commitment is aimed at ensuring better access to quality sports and physical activities for all.
Assessment & feedback
Specific steps being taken by the Department were not detailed, only the overall commitment was stated.
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Lincoln Jopp Con
Spelthorne
Context
The Member highlights the diverse range of sport facilities and clubs in his constituency, including football teams.
In Spelthorne, there are various sports clubs and schools with successful football teams. What support is available for such grassroots initiatives?
We have just announced the first allocations of the £400 million invested in grassroots sport. I wish Thamesmead—the teams actually—the best of success in what should be a fantastic competition.
Assessment & feedback
No specific support for Spelthorne's initiatives was detailed, only a general message of support was given.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Charlie Dewhirst Con
Bridlington and The Wolds
Context
Over 1,600 swimming pools across the country are now more than 40 years old. Previous government commitment of £80 million.
Many swimming pools across the UK are over 40 years old and need renovation. What plans does the Secretary of State have to continue previous commitments?
The Sport Minister is working closely with her counterpart at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. We have made more funding available but need to ensure it gets to the right places for every child to access good swimming provision locally.
Assessment & feedback
While acknowledging previous commitments, specific plans were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q4 Direct Answer
Louie French Con
Old Bexley and Sidcup
Context
Team GB's success in the Winter Olympics inspires the next generation. Government's role in ensuring legacy.
What steps is the Secretary of State taking to secure the legacy of Team GB's performance, both for elite and grassroots sports?
More than 4,000 people have shown interest in skeleton due to Team GB's success. We must bring forward the next generation. Funding and recognising those who help athletes succeed will be key. It is long overdue that our honours system recognises ordinary people in grassroots sport.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q5 Partial Answer
Louie French Con
Old Bexley and Sidcup
Context
Concerns regarding the Government's plans to reduce Sport England's regulatory power, risking concreted over pitches.
Leading sports figures have concerns about reducing Sport England's powers. What action is being taken to address these concerns?
The Government believes in a more sensible and lighter-touch system. We do not want a reduction in grassroots facilities. The Sport Minister has been working with other Ministers to proceed sensibly, ensuring no reduction in the amount of available facilities.
Assessment & feedback
Specific actions addressing concerns were not detailed, only an assurance was given without concrete steps.
Response accuracy