MP: ‘Golf can and should return quickly from lockdown’

Golf can “and should” return quickly once any coronavirus lockdown restrictions are lifted – provided social distancing and other government instructions are met.

North Warwickshire MP Craig Tracey, the chairman of the UK Parliament’s All-Party Group for Golf, is liaising with industry bodies and colleagues in government to ensure “that golf can return as quickly as possible with temporary rules, actions or measures in development to be implemented immediately once there is any lifting of lockdown restrictions,” a statement from the body said.

Tracey was speaking about leading industry bodies’ response to Covid-19 and the return of golf in Britain. As yet, no clear date has been given as to when clubs and courses will be able to reopen.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf comprises MPs and Peers from any political party and exists solely to support the sport of golf.

Since the shut down of the industry on March 23, and the lockdown, Tracey has chaired and taken part in a series of virtual meetings with the likes of the R&A, PGA, and British Golf Industry Association.

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“I have been hugely impressed by the response of the different leading golf stakeholders in coming together and working to secure a coherent response to Covid-19,” he said.

“Members of Parliament know how valuable golf is to the UK as it has a huge economic impact, employs large numbers across the UK and has significant positive influence on people’s health.

“The initial challenges with lockdown meant golf had to close in Britain, but the nature of the game means it can, and should, return quickly provided there are steps taken by all involved to maintain social distancing and to meet any other government instruction.”

On his discussions with industry bodies, he added: “There are so many elements and stakeholders in the golf sector that there is no single body that can or should dictate to others.  However, all recognise the symbiotic relationship between the different elements and that any failing in one area could cause significant reputational damage ”

“I would like to say well done to all the different bodies involved.  What they are doing now will make a huge difference and has the potential to make golf all the stronger if this co-operative way of working can be continued.”

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