LAUNCH OF NEW NATIONAL COALITION FOR ACTIVE AGEING

Early day motion 370, tabled 20 June 2005 by Alan Keen (Labour). Signed by 160 members.

That this House welcomes the launch of the new National Coalition for Active Ageing, whose members include Help the Aged, the Central Council of Physical Recreation, the British Heart Foundation National Centre for Physical Activity at Loughborough University, Age Concern England, ARP050, the National Association of Providers of Activities, the British Geriatrics Society and the British Heart Foundation; notes that there is evidence that conditions which cause loss of function and independence in later life are preventable; further notes that physical activity brings immediate and long-term physiological, psychological and social benefits to older people; is concerned that some older people are not aware of the importance of physical activity and lack access to high quality, accessible, appropriate and affordable services to enable them to experience the benefits of active ageing; and urges the Government to develop a long-term strategy for raising the levels of physical activity amongst older people.

Signatures by party: Labour 68, Conservative 53, Liberal Democrat 27, DUP 8, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1, UUP 1.