§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what support he has given to efforts to attract the 2006 Football World Cup to the United Kingdom. [56029]
§ Mr. BanksThe Government, from the Prime Minister down, are providing the fullest diplomatic and promotional support for the FA's bid to stage the 2006 World Cup. I hold regular meetings with the FA Campaign Team. I have personally discussed the bid with several members of the FIFA Executive Committee, either here in London or in their home countries. I will continue to accompany FA delegations to promote the bid as Parliamentary business allows. I have written to hon. Members urging them to use every opportunity to support the bid, and have been heartened by the positive response. I was delighted that the hon. Member, together with the hon. Member for Suffolk, West (Mr. Spring) and other right hon. and hon. Members, were able to join me at a reception at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on 26 October at which Sepp Blatter, the FIFA President, following his meeting with the Prime Minister, was the principal guest.