Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephanie Peacock and Ashley Fox

Thursday 16th April 2026 Commons Chamber

[Stephanie Peacock]

I was pleased to meet representatives of parkrun alongside my hon. Friend a few months ago to mark its 21st anniversary, and I pay tribute to the huge impact it has. Indeed, last year, I joined my hon. Friend for the relaunch of parkwalk, which is a great example of how inclusive parkrun is—of course, it would not be possible without all the volunteers. If I may, I would like to mention Oliver Smith from my constituency. I was pleased to run the Barnsley parkrun with my hon. Friend the Member for Barnsley North (Dan Jarvis) alongside Oliver Smith, aged nine, who is running nine marathons in four months to raise money for the Brain Tumour Charity following his dad’s diagnosis. I wish him luck in completing his challenge next weekend at the mini London marathon.

[Sir Ashley Fox (Bridgwater) (Con)]

Sydenham amateur boxing club does an incredible job, working with young people in and around Bridgwater. It helps teach not just boxing, but discipline and control. In order to help more young people, it wants to expand and build a purpose-built gym, so will the Minister outline what support is available for grassroots boxing clubs such as Sydenham to help them improve their facilities and help more young people?

[Stephanie Peacock]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question—it was a pleasure to meet him on a different subject earlier this week. I met the all-party parliamentary group on boxing recently. I welcome the points he makes and agree with them, and I am keen to work with him to help deliver that goal.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephanie Peacock and Ashley Fox

Thursday 26th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Stephanie Peacock]

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Team GB at the winter Olympics. It was a real pleasure to be out in Italy cheering them on in their most successful winter games yet.

I pay tribute to the lady the hon. Gentleman mentioned. We want everyone, whatever their age, to be able to be active, and we are always interested to hear ideas about future major sporting events.

[Sir Ashley Fox (Bridgwater) (Con)]

Bridgwater is the home of carnival. At nearly 180 years old, ours is the oldest carnival in the UK. This fantastic cultural event promotes an active lifestyle among the whole community. However, every year the cost of complying with legislation makes it that little bit harder to continue. Will the Minister meet with me and members of the carnival to discuss what support might be available so that this fantastic spectacle continues for another 180 years?

[Mr Speaker]

That is a shoehorned question—good luck!