Business of the House

Colleen Fletcher Excerpts

Thursday 17th January 2019 Commons Chamber

[Andrea Leadsom]

I am just too tempted, Mr Speaker; you are going to love this. I say in response to the hon. Gentleman:

“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.”

On the hon. Gentleman’s point, a competent Government have to continue to prepare for all eventualities. That is just the reality.

[Colleen Fletcher (Coventry North East) (Lab)]

Coventry’s year-long reign as the European city of sport is officially under way. Our city will use the year not only to promote and celebrate the benefits of sport and physical activity, but to act as a catalyst for a fitter, healthier and happier Coventry. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating my city on securing European city of sport status, and will she also arrange a debate in Government time on the positive impact that sport can have on individuals and the wider society?

[Andrea Leadsom]

First, I thoroughly congratulate all in Coventry on the fantastic start to their year as city of sport. We all wish them well. It is a brilliant role model for all of us who want to see more activity in schools. In our own lives, we should all get out there and do sporting activities when we can. I congratulate the hon. Lady on raising that in the Chamber, and I will certainly look at whether we can facilitate Government time for such a debate.