§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement on progress in England's bid to host the 2006 World Cup. [47607]
§ Mr. Banks[holding answer 29 June 1998]: The Government are providing the fullest diplomatic and promotional support for the FA's bid to stage the 2006 World Cup. It is an excellent bid which, I believe, stands a very good chance of success. I hold regular meetings with the FA Campaign Team, and have joined FA delegations at meetings with several members of the FIFA Executive Committee, either here in London or in their home countries, to promote the merits of the bid. I intend to accompany FA delegations on future visits to promote the bid, as Parliamentary business allows. I have written to hon. Members urging them to use every opportunity to support the bid and have been heartened by the positive response I have received.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport which stadiums he has evaluated in the planning of the bid to host the 2006 World Cup. [47604]
§ Mr. Banks[holding answer 29 June 1998]: This is a matter for the Football Association which need to meet the FIFA bid requirements which are due to be published at the end of 1998. Our stadia are amongst the best in the world, and were instrumental in making Euro 96 such a success. The FA will have many excellent stadia from which to choose.