§ Mr. SpringTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will liaise with the French authorities to ensure that tickets for the World Cup are not re-sold. [34285]
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§ Mr. MichaelFrance has strict laws against ticket touting under their Penal Code. All tickets for the World Cup will carry the name of the person to whom they are issued by the French authorities. The tickets can be re-sold only with the written permission of the authorities, and without that authority the original purchaser remains liable for the actions of those in the ground who use the ticket. The French authorities have advised they will rigidly apply the law against those who are in breach of the Code. My right hon. Friend has welcomed this approach in meetings with his French counterpart. Additionally, United Kingdom officials have discussed with the French authorities the practical measures in place to minimise the ability to sell tickets without written permission from the relevant authorities. We have registered our concern at the potential impact on safety and security of touted tickets getting into the hands of rival fans.