by Anton Johan
The UK government is seeking creative ways to fund sports events and facilities in the country, and has turned its attention to money left dormant in gambling accounts.
A new report will be drawn up by Bath Member of Parliament, Don Foster, at the request of the Minister for Tourism and Heritage, John Penrose, to examine the option of using the millions of pounds left in these accounts.
"There is potential for some really good causes to benefit from this money," wrote Penrose in an official government statement, "but we have to look at all the options first. That's why I've asked Don Foster to lead this review and leave no stone unturned."
Foster's report will define a dormant gambling account and status of the cash left in these accounts.
The government will need to understand all the legal issues surrounding claims to this cash before it can actually withdraw the money.
The MP said that he would be carrying out a number of consultations around the UK "to gain views and suggestions on how this can work."
"I'm delighted to be leading this project and look forward to completing it before the year is out," said Foster.
"It would be great to see some local sporting facilities and initiatives getting some extra funding in these difficult financial times," he added.
The report will be presented to the government by the end of 2010, and analysts believe that if all the legal issues are smoothed out, the cash from these dormant accounts could be used to construct new sporting facilities after the introduction of new legislation.
