NATIONAL LOTTERY NOT GOVT’S PIGGY BANK

Angus MP, Mike Weir, has expressed deep concerns that a lack of funding for many worthwhile projects throughout Angus could occur if the costs of the London Olympics continue to spiral out of control.  Mr Weir made his comments after the Culture, Media And Sport Minister, Tessa Jowell, told the House of Commons that the 2012 London Olympics had risen from £2billion to almost £10billion.

Mr Weir who has previously voiced concerns regarding the costs of preparing for the London Games said:

“These spiralling costs are obscene and makes the debacle of the Millennium Dome look more like a white shrew than a white elephant.  With five years remaining until the Games commence I fear that this latest rise in costs is merely the tip of the iceberg.

“This government does not seem to have any idea of a budget for the Olympics and think it’s acceptable to use the National Lottery as their own personal piggy bank when things get out of control.”

Mr Weir also lambasted the Culture, Media and Sports Minister, Tessa Jowell, after suggesting that community sports organisations should look elsewhere for their funding. 

“It is disgraceful that good causes and grass root sports throughout Angus will suffer as lottery money is diverted to pay for the Games’ infrastructure and London regeneration.

“However, during the heady euphoric days when London was first awarded the Olympics it was the SNP alone who warned of spiralling costs and the threat to our good causes.”