Assembly opposes grassroots sports funding cuts

Caroline Pidgeon, Lib Dem leader on the London Assembly, has joined with other assembly members across parties in calling on the government to rule out damaging cuts to grassroots sports funding in the run up to the 2012 Olympics.

In a motion agreed on 8th December, the Assembly warned of the danger of cutting the funding of the Schools Sports Partnership in London, emphasised the value of continuing investing in grassroots sports facilities, and asked the Mayor to join in lobbying the government to ensure this funding is preserved.

Caroline Pidgeon AM, who seconded the motion, said:
“The chance to take part in a range of school sports makes a real difference to young people growing up, helping them develop leadership skills, discipline and team working. School sports funding is about much more than all-weather pitches and gym equipment, it’s about building the skills that young people need in every aspect of their lives.”

The full text of the motion reads as follows:
“In the lead up to the Olympics in London 2012, the Assembly calls upon the Mayor to make a strong case to Government for London sports funding to continue through our schools and local sports clubs and the School Sports Partnership.”