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Grassroots Rugby League
26 March 2025
Lead MP
Jade Botterill
Ossett and Denby Dale
Lab
Responding Minister
Stephanie Peacock
Tags
NHS
Word Count: 3399
Other Contributors: 5
At a Glance
Jade Botterill raised concerns about grassroots rugby league in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The hon. Member asks for increased governmental support and incentives to promote rugby league in communities, particularly among women and young people, along with recognition of the sport's cultural significance.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The hon. Member highlights the importance of grassroots rugby league, noting its deep roots in northern communities and the significant contribution it makes to local economies and community spirit. The debate addresses issues such as lack of national recognition for players like Billy Boston, the need for more funding for local infrastructure to ensure clubs can thrive, and the positive impact on mental health through open conversations.
Harpreet Uppal
Lab
Huddersfield
Agrees that more funding is needed to support local infrastructure and ensure the sustainability of community clubs in Huddersfield, such as the Newsome Panthers and St Joseph’s.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Welcomes local business support for rugby league but highlights the need for governmental incentives to make it easier to support and promote the sport in lower-income communities and among women.
Josh Simons
Lab
Makerfield
Supports the idea of national recognition for rugby league players, specifically mentioning Billy Boston as an example who deserves a knighthood.
Mark Sewards
Lab
Leeds South West and Morley
Pays tribute to the Farnley Falcons for fostering community spirit, resulting in record numbers of boys and girls playing rugby league. Secured funding alongside Leeds Rhinos foundation for clubhouse renovation.
The Government are committed to supporting sports such as rugby league, primarily through the work of Sport England. They have invested £100 million in grassroots sports facilities via the multi-sport grassroots facilities programme.
Government Response
Stephanie Peacock
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
Government Response
Commends the debate on a great topic and congratulates the lead MP. Announces £11.9 million funding support from Sport England to Rugby Football League up to 2027. Highlights social value of rugby league in building confidence, teamwork, life skills, community cohesion, health improvement, and reducing crime incidents. The Government are committed to supporting grassroots rugby league through various initiatives, including investing £100 million in grassroots sports facilities via the multi-sport grassroots facilities programme. This investment is central to its multi-sport offer: 40% of projects will offer regular and sustained multi-sport use. The Rugby Football League's Awakening Rugby League in the City programme creates a pathway for talented athletes who may never have considered playing rugby league, giving them an opportunity to experience the game for the first time in a supported environment.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.