Michael Gove ‘incorrect’ on playing field data

Figures obtained by the Daily Telegraph suggest a total of 30 school playing fields have been approved for sale – more than the 21 previously admitted to by ministers.

A further two applications are currently outstanding, while two have been rejected and another withdrawn.

The newspaper also says Michael Gove has overruled independent advice not to allow the sale of playing fields five times since 2010.

The education secretary, who has to make the final approval on playing field sales or delegate it to a minister, had defied advice more times than Labour ministers did between 2001 and 2010.

Labour ministers rejected advice not to sell playing fields four times.

Department for Education ‘sorry’

A Department for Education spokesman said: “We are sorry to say that the secretary of state was provided with incorrect information about how many playing fields were disposed of since May 2010s

“The figures presented to the secretary of state, and published by the department, related to applications received between May 2010 and June 2012.

“Those figures should have included requests received by the previous government and then approved by the coalition.

“The established process of approval means that most decisions are taken by junior ministers.

“Each decision was made by a minister after careful consideration of the arguments. Ministers have sought to ensure that proceeds go to improving sports facilities for young people overall. We are, of course, happy to publish the reasons for each decision.

“As the secretary of state has said, this government has tightened protections for existing playing fields. Prior to launching a consultation on new rules for playing fields, officials briefed the School Playing Fields Advisory Panel.

“They have contributed to the consultation alongside many other interested parties. The panel also met a member of the ministerial team earlier this year to discuss matters of common concern.”