MP in call for free Commonwealth Games tickets

Eleanor Smith has written to Andy Street asking him to pledge free entry for youngsters at the 2022 event in Birmingham, saying it will benefit "the next generation’s mental and physical well-being".

But the Mayor admitted he was bemused by the request, saying the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has no powers over the distribution of tickets for major international sporting events.

He has pledged to raise the MP's comments at the next strategic board meeting for the Games.

In her letter, Wolverhampton South West MP Ms Smith says: "It is a bitter truth of modern life in the West Midlands, that in our area and its cities like Wolverhampton there are many children who are living in poverty.

"These are children who are growing up excluded from many of the benefits of our society – basic benefits like sport that their parents hope to give their children access to, but cannot afford.

She goes on to call on the Mayor to make it possible for all children to experience events at the Games, "regardless of their family income and circumstances".

The MP demands youngsters be allowed to attend "one or two events free of charge", as well as receiving a day's free travel and getting access to discounted tickets for their families.

Ms Smith also asked how local businesses were being involved in the Commonwealth Games.

A spokesman for Mr Street said: "The WMCA is not the organiser of the Commonwealth Games and does not have the power to grant free access to events, nor subsidise ticket prices.

"However, the Mayor is keen to ensure that the Commonwealth Games leaves a legacy for generations to come and will raise Ms Smith's comments at the next Commonwealth Games Strategic Board meeting."

Ticketing arrangements for the Games are organised through the Commonwealth Games Federation.

As yet no details have been revealed over how tickets will be distributed.