Christopher Fraser, MP for South West Norfolk, has called for a debate in the House of Commons to give Members an opportunity to ensure an appropriate, sustainable legacy from the 2012 London Olympics.
Reminding the Leader of the House Jack Straw MP of the enormous financial cost of the Games, Christopher Fraser said that while not everyone can compete, there should be an opportunity for everyone who wants to participate in some way to do so. He included young people and British companies who he said have much to contribute and can help to ensure that the Games live up to expectations.
Speaking afterwards, Christopher Fraser added: “I was a member of the Culture, Media & Sport Select Committee at the time of the Sydney Olympics. I know from experience gained at that time that too many decisions were made at the last minute. The same thing happened in Athens four years later. The plantings, for example, were put in at the very last minute and then allowed to die. Now is the time to get things right, by planning ahead.
“There is a vast amount of talent and excellence in this country that should be called on to make the Games unique, reflecting the culture of all areas of this country. It cannot just be a London event, particularly as the increasing cost is likely to take Lottery funds away from local voluntary and charity projects. I would like to see horticultural businesses in Norfolk given an opportunity to take on planting and landscaping of the Olympic venues; I would like to see every school given an opportunity to contribute in some way by sending young people to meet and greet, or to design some of the thousands of pieces of art work that will be needed. Participation on this scale needs forethought, research and organisation, but it will pay dividends in terms of the legacy. I welcome Jack Straw’s encouraging reply, and I look to him to schedule a debate before the summer break. There is no time to be lost.” |