Independent report urges dramatic changes to structure of sport

The first independent review of sport in 45 years has been unveiled, recommending sweeping changes to the existing system.

The 140-page report, Raising the Bar, which has been nearly two years in production, was co-written by two ex-sports ministers, Conservative, Lord Colin Moynihan and Labour MP, Kate Hoey and calls for the abolition of Sport England and UK Sport.

The creation of a Sports Foundation – a one-stop shop for the funding of national governing bodies and local authorities, which would be chaired by a Secretary of State for Sport – is advised.

Unsurprisingly, the review has been treated sceptically by UK Sport and Sport England. UK Sport chair, Sue Campbell said: "The review consulted many sporting figures whose views we respect. However, we do not believe that its recommendations regarding the structure of sports funding are appropriate for the current time."

Richard Caborn is also believed to have dismissed the report for not taking account of recent structural changes.