§ 17. Ms WardTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement on his Department's assistance for the bid for the soccer World Cup in 2006. [17993]
§ Mr. BanksThe Government are committed to attracting major sporting events to the UK, and are giving the fullest possible promotional and diplomatic support to the Football Association's bid to host the 2006 World Cup. I have written to hon. Members asking them to back the bid whenever an opportunity arises.
§ 20. Ms Christine RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to encourage families to support their national soccer team at the 1998 World Cup finals. [17997]
§ Mr. BanksI hope that next year's World Cup Finals will be enjoyed by all football supporters both at home, and those fortunate enough to travel to France. The Government are offering the French authorities every assistance so that those genuine supporters from this country attending this celebration of world football can have a safe and memorable time.