HC Deb 28 July 1998 vol 317 c160W
Mr. Spring

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what representations he has received in respect of the UEFA decision to impose ownership restrictions on clubs taking part in UEFA competitions. [50716]

Mr. Banks

[holding answer 16 July 1998]: I have received a number of representations expressing concern about a recently adopted UEFA ruling preventing football clubs under common control from participating in the same UEFA competition.

While I can appreciate the concern about the potential impact of the ruling, I believe it is very important that the integrity of football competitions is not undermined. How far the new ruling is proportionate to UEFA's concerns in this regard is, of course, for the football authorities to judge in the first instance, and to pursue as necessary with UEFA. I am due to discuss this issue with the Premier League.