Olympic costs need parliamentary debate - Foster

4.52.26pm GMT Tue 23rd Jan 2007

Commenting ahead of tomorrow's publication of the DCMS Select Committee report into the funding and legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Liberal Democrat Shadow Culture, Media and Sport Secretary, Don Foster MP said:

"I hope this report brings greater clarity to the confusion currently reigning over the Olympics but I still believe we need a full public discussion of the figures, including a debate in Parliament.

"Some rises in costs, such as with security, were to be expected but it's not acceptable to further raid Lottery good causes when it could seriously damage funding for arts, heritage, sports and charities.

"There is also real concern that not enough is being done to ensure that the Olympic legacy benefits vital British industries like tourism."

Applicability: this item refers to the UK.