Schedule 5: the Olympic Lottery Distributor
139.This Schedule sets out arrangements for the constitution, proceedings and financial arrangements of the Olympic Lottery Distributor which this Act proposes to establish.
140.Paragraph 1 provides for the appointment of at least five members to the OLD by the Secretary of State. This figure is lower than some other Lottery distributors to reflect its focused remit and the fact that its level of activity may not match that of other distributors particularly in its early years of operation. Paragraph 1 (3) requires the Secretary of State to consult with the Mayor and the British Olympic Association (BOA) before appointing members. This consultation reflects the fact that Government, the Greater London Authority (GLA) and the BOA are the three key parties with a stake in the London Olympic Bid, and the subsequent staging of the Games. The operation of the Olympic Lottery Distributor may have a direct impact on the operation of the GLA and the BOA, and the exercise of their own duties in relation to ensuring the successful staging of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
141.Paragraphs 2 to 6 make further provisions concerning the OLD such as the length of tenure for members and the circumstances in which that tenure may come to an end. Paragraphs 7, 8, 13, 15, 19 to 22 and 24 all provide powers to the OLD such as powers to appoint staff and committees, delegate functions, regulate its own procedures and to make payments (including remuneration). The OLD can also invest in an interest bearing account, receive funds from the Secretary of State to cover certain expenditure and receive gifts (paragraphs 22 to 24). Gifts in paragraph 24 is intended to cover financial donations. Paragraphs 14, 17 and 25 provide for certain duties of the OLD including compliance with directions of the Secretary of State, completion of an annual report and maintenance and submission of proper accounts to the Secretary of State and the Comptroller and Auditor General. The Comptroller and Auditor General is the Head of the National Audit Office, the independent body which scrutinises public spending on behalf of Parliament. There are other miscellaneous provisions in the schedule which relate to such matters as designating the OLD’s records as public records and relating to its supervision and status (see paragraphs 9, 10 and 16).
