§ Mr. PearsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what representations he has received on the need to ensure that the England football team has an effective World Cup song. [25760]
§ Mr. BanksThe history of Englands football anthems is very mixed. In 1990 and 1996, they were hugely popular. In some other years they have rivalled bubonic plague in their appeal. Perhaps the Football Association should hold a competition among English song writers to try and establish a permanent football anthem. For me Tina Turner's "Simply the Best" would be the ideal World Cup song.
§ Mr. MaudeTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what steps he has taken to support England's bid to host the 2006 Soccer World Cup. [25890]
§ Mr. BanksThe Government are providing the fullest diplomatic and promotional support for the FA's bid to stage the 2006 World Cup. I hold regular meetings with the FA Campaign Team. I have personally discussed the bid with several members of the FIFA Executive 30,820 Committee, either here in London or in their home 407W countries. I will continue to accompany FA delegations to promote the bid, as Parliamentary business allows. I have discussed the bid with the hon. Member for West Suffolk (Mr. Spring) and I have written to hon. Members urging them to use every opportunity to support the bid. I have been heartened by the positive response.