§ Sir Thomas ArnoldTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if he will make a statement on the outcome of the consultation about legislating to protect the Olympic symbol in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. BrookeMy Department together with the Department of Trade and Industry has consulted widely with those who have an interest in the Olympic symbol, motto and related terms. I am pleased to report that there is overwhelming support for the proposal to legislate to 37W confer the United Kingdom rights to the Olympic symbol, motto and related terms on the British Olympic Association, with suitable safeguards for holders of existing rights. Such a measure would bring substantial benefits to British Olympic teams as well as satisfying the IOC's requirements of countries bidding to host the Olympic Games. It underlines once again the seriousness of the Government's commitment to supporting the British bid to host the Olympic Games in Manchester in the year 2000. Legislation will be introduced as soon as the parliamentary timetable allows it.