HC Deb 26 February 1998 vol 307 c310W
Mr. Spring

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how he plans to ensure that known football hooligans are prevented from travelling to France during the World Cup. [31090]

Mr. Michael

The Government are determined to do everything possible to prevent the disruption of the World Cup by football hooligans. Offenders who have been convicted of a football-related offence and made subject to a restriction order by the court are required to attend a designated police station during the period in which matches are taking place. British police, including the Football Unit of the National Criminal Intelligence Service, have established a close working relationship with the French authorities. They will ensure that all relevant intelligence about the movement of potential troublemakers is made available to the French police so that those who might want to cause trouble are identified or monitored to prevent disorder occurring.