What action it (a) has taken and (b) intends to take to prevent the sale of school and public playing fields.

The Executive is committed tothe protection of playing fields through the planning system. Primary responsibilityfor the protection of playing fields lie with local authorities and robust planningpolicies are required to safeguard playing fields where they contribute to localcommunity needs and enjoyment. Sportscotland play an effective role in thisprocess and will object to planning applications proposing development on playingfields unless it can be demonstrated that the playing fields are surplus to requirementsand will not be required in the future.