Oral Answers to Questions

Stephen Phillips Excerpts

Thursday 22nd October 2015 Commons Chamber

[Tracey Crouch]

There are many reasons why girls stop participating in sport at certain ages and it is important that we understand what those may be. We know that 14, for example, is a key age when girls start to lose interest in sport. It is important that schools and clubs outside schools understand all the competing pressures in a girl’s life at that age and can support them into sport and physical activity at appropriate points. Good places will do that and be as adaptable and flexible as possible, but it always worth looking in more detail into why people stop playing sport or participating in physical activity.

[Stephen Phillips (Sleaford and North Hykeham) (Con)]

7. What steps he is taking to promote good governance and the elimination of corruption in world football.

[The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Mr John Whittingdale)]

The Government take very seriously the issue of good governance in sport, at both national and international level. Combating corruption in sport requires a co-ordinated and international approach. The Government are therefore discussing the issue of good governance with our colleagues in Europe, the Commonwealth and the wider international community to explore what more we can achieve by working together. The UK is due to host a round-table discussion on tackling corruption in sport at next week’s Open Government Partnership global summit in Mexico.

[Stephen Phillips]

Before it even knew who the candidates would be, the Football Association came out in support of Michel Platini as the next president of FIFA. He is now under investigation, like Sepp Blatter, for corruption. What conversations has my right hon. Friend had with the FA about its support for Michel Platini?

[Mr Whittingdale]

I have regular discussions with the FA and, unsurprisingly, the subject of the presidency of FIFA comes up frequently. Although the decision on which candidate to support is ultimately a matter for the FA, the Government have made it clear that we expect to see a new FIFA, with a new president who can drive reform and not one tainted by the problems of the past.

--- Later in debate ---

[Tom Pursglove (Corby) (Con)]

4. What estimate he has made of the expected cost of restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster.

[Stephen Phillips (Sleaford and North Hykeham) (Con)]

7. When the Commission plans to bring forward proposals on the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster.

[Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington)]

On behalf of the Liberal Democrats, I would like to echo the tributes to Michael Meacher, who gave outstanding service to the House.

The House of Commons Commission and the House of Lords House Committee asked for the independent appraisal of options and costs for restoring and renewing the Palace of Westminster that was published on 18 June. The range of costs for each option is given and explained in the document. The two Houses have appointed a Joint Committee, which will report to both Houses in due course. In the meantime, essential and urgent work to maintain the Palace continues.