LEIGH MP Andy Burnham is calling for competitive sport to be made a key part of the school time table.
Mr Burnham is spearheading government plans to make pupils take part in more competitive fixtures after school. He claims the policy will help combat rising levels of childhood obesity and antisocial behaviour.
The Labour MP said on the BBC Radio Four Today programme: "What I am calling for is a return to what we saw in the 80s where there was regular after-school competitive fixtures in the main sports.
"I think the benefits to society of that rigorous, robust system of after-school sports are huge. At a time when we are talking about childhood obesity and antisocial behaviour that some children are causing after school, it seems to me the answer that is staring us in the face."
Mr Burnham said teachers must be rewarded with extra pay or time off in lieu for teaching sport.
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