§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what steps he has taken to host the Rugby League World Cup in the United Kingdom. [47605]
§ Mr. BanksThe Government are committed to work to bring major international sporting events to Britain and, through the English and UK Sports Councils, we fully support the efforts being taken by the Rugby Football League to stage the Rugby League World Cup at the earliest possible date. I understand that the RFL is due to present a draft eight-year programme of international competition, which includes a proposed four-year World Cup cycle, to the next meeting of the Rugby Football League's International Board later this year.