§ Kevin BrennanTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport when she will announce Britain's choice for European City of Culture 2008; and if she will make a statement. [49998]
§ Dr. HowellsIt is hoped that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will, in consultation with colleagues and the devolved administrations, make her recommendation to the Prime Minister towards the end of Spring 2003 having considered a report by an independent advisory panel. The Prime Minister will then make a nomination to the European Union. The European Union will ratify the United Kingdom's nomination during 2004.