§ Mr. Sayeedasked the Prime Minister if, when she next meets the chairman of the Football Association and the President of the Football League, she will discuss with them the lessons for the Government's objective of reducing the level of violence at football matches in the United Kingdom of experience of the conduct of British football supporters in Mexico for the World Cup; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThese matters were discussed at my meeting yesterday with representatives of the football authorities, including the chairman of the Football Association and the new president of the Football League. We reviewed progress with our joint efforts to combat football spectator violence by British fans at home and abroad. The good behaviour of British fans in Mexico, together with the marked reduction in domestic incidents last season, gives cause for optimism. But we agreed that careful planning and preparation remained vital; that we will continue vigorously to combat hooliganism, through the effective partnership between the Government and the football authorities.
§ Mr. Sayeedasked the Prime Minister what information Her Majesty's Government have about the conduct of British football supporters whilst attending the World Cup tournament in Mexico; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterI have received reports on the conduct of British football supporters in Mexico from my hon. Friend the Minister with responsibility for Sport, who attended the tournament from 8 to 15 June, and from Her Majesty's ambassador in Mexico. It seems clear that British supporters behaved well. Seven thousand to 9,000 attended the tournament, over four to six weeks; there were 31 arrests, mostly for minor offences against local byelaws. All but two were released quickly from custody. Clearly the careful planning and preparation by the Government, police and football authorities before and at 585W the tournament were effective, as was the policing by the Mexican authorities. I pay tribute to the positive attitude of the British fans in Mexico, and to the efforts of the Mexican Government and police, of the football authorities and of the staff of Her Majesty's ambassador in Mexico.