Television: Listed Sporting Events

Debate between Viscount Younger of Leckie and Baroness Hamwee

Thursday 11th October 2012 Lords Chamber

[Viscount Younger of Leckie]

I am delighted that the noble Lord brought up that point. I said on Tuesday, in answer to a different Question, that I thought the coverage on television was absolutely outstanding, including the previews and reviews of past Olympics. The editing was outstanding, and I take the noble Lord’s point.

[Baroness Hamwee]

My Lords, the Paralympics were broadcast on Channel 4. Seeing them opened the eyes of many of us to a number of exciting sports. Is the Minister aware of any plans, spurred on by government or among the broadcasters, to broadcast more of those sports?

[Viscount Younger of Leckie]

Again, I cannot comment on the future of the list itself, but I absolutely take note of the fact—it has been said elsewhere—that a number of sports from the Olympics have received a much higher profile. That includes the Paralympic sports and sport for women. We should remember the likes of Jessica Ennis, Ellie Simmonds, Kath Grainger and Sarah Storey. I have no doubt that these sports, Paralympic and women’s sports, will be included if there is a review in 2013.