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MPs urge PE to be core subject, more funding, and removal of no-ball signs
MPs published the 'Game On' report after a year-long inquiry into barriers to sport and physical activity in England. They call for PE to be a core subject, funding increases, removal of no-ball signs, and a dedicated broadcast slot for women's football to boost participation.
Why It Matters
If implemented, the recommendations could shift national attitudes toward sport, increase participation in schools and communities, and potentially yield health and economic benefits.
Timeline
1 Event
Publication of the Game On report and its recommendations
April 20, 2026
On April 20, 2026, MPs published the 'Game On' report after a year-long inquiry into barriers to sport and physical activity in England. The report calls for a cross-government strategy, increases in funding for sport and recreation from 0.3% to at least 0.6% of total government expenditure over the next ten years, and makes PE a core subject with a minimum of two hours of high-quality PE per week. It also recommends removing unnecessary 'no ball games' signs from local authorities and housing associations, supporting the 'More Ball Games' campaign, and argues for a dedicated broadcast slot for women's football to counter the 3pm blackout and inspire activity. Additional measures include a statutory duty on local authorities to provide sporting facilities and greater protections for playing fields.