§ Mr. SpringTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much money has been raised from sponsors to replace tobacco sponsorship of sporting events by the Government Task Force on tobacco sponsorship of sport. [106445]
§ Kate Hoey[pursuant to the reply, 12 July 1999, c. 25W]: It is too soon to be looking to replace existing contracts and our help can most effectively be targeted in the 12 to 18 months before they lapse, which is the normal lead in time for negotiating new sponsorships. However, I am keeping in close touch with the sports involved and Task Force members are also offering ongoing advice and assistance to help the sports prepare to move away from existing tobacco sponsors.
§ Mr. SpringTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport when the Task Force on tobacco sponsorship of sport has met since its inception. [106444]
§ Kate HoeyThere have been three formal meetings of the Tobacco Sponsorship Task Force which were held on: 10 December 1998; 24 February 1999; and 19 October 1999. In addition there have been 11 meetings between officials in my Department, Task Force members, and the individual sports concerned.