§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will have consultations with the Football Association and the Football League about the effects on sport and the general public of the Independent Television contract for the exclusive televising of football matches; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Denis HowellAs the House has already been informed, the matter is being examined by the Director General of Fair Trading. I understand that some of the other parties involved are also studying the legal position. In the circumstances, I believe it is right to await the outcome of these deliberations before considering the matter further.