HC Deb 25 March 1981 vol 1 cc361-2W
46. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will cause an investigation to be made, and if he will protest to all the Soviet organisations involved, at the way in which representatives of the Soviet Government treated the West Ham United football club on its visit via Moscow to play in the Cup Winners' Cup quarter final, where it was deliberately delayed and had various obstacles and difficulties placed in its way at Moscow airport on Monday 17 March 1981.

Mr. Blaker

From reports received from our embassy in Moscow and from West Ham United football club it is clear that the delay suffered at Moscow airport was excessive and that the party were treated with less than due consideration. We understand that the European Football Association Union which is responsible for the organisation of the competition has asked for details of the difficulties experienced by West Ham. We shall consider in the light of the results of its investigation whether action by the Government is called for.

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