Business of the House

Mark Pritchard Excerpts

Thursday 25th June 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for bringing this matter to the House. I hope we all agree that cleanliness and the upkeep of the parliamentary estate are absolutely vital, because they allow us to continue to do our jobs. The policy that he mentions is in the purview of the House authorities, and if my hon. Friend should wish to make his case to the appropriate House official, I will help him in that process.

[Mark Pritchard (The Wrekin) (Con)]

The Leader of the House has many skills, as we all know, but many Members will not know that footballing skills are among them. In this world cup season, I suggest to him that playing fields have an important role in the football narrative of many boys and girls, and others playing football now, including for England. Is he aware of the campaign by the Shropshire Football Association, which has supported football since 1877, to protect where we play in Shropshire? We should ensure that our playing fields are protected, not built on. We understand that we have to build more houses, but that needs to be done on the right scale, and in the right place. Does he share my concern about the Government’s plan to remove Sport England as a statutory consultee?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I regret to say that I think the right hon. Gentleman is mixing me up with someone else if he thinks I have footballing skills, but I will plough on regardless. Let me be very clear: it is important that we protect our playing fields. We do need houses—homes—so that people can live fulfilling lives, but we also need to protect playing fields wherever we possibly can, and the Government are committed to that. If he wants reassurance on this matter, I can arrange a meeting with the relevant Minister, or he could seek an Adjournment debate in which to make his case.