§ Mr. MullinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to allow police to charge for policing outside football grounds on match days; and if he will make a statement. [34796]
§ Mr. John DenhamThe Government remains concerned at the costs incurred in policing entertainment venues, including major events such as sporting and outdoor entertainments. We are keen to explore how we might encourage and develop arrangements under which entertainment venues make a contribution to the policing and public order costs generated by their activities. Complex issues need to be resolved in order to find a way forward. As we said in response to the Home Affairs Committee's Report into the Police Reform Bill, as part of the Government's ongoing work in this area, we will consult interested parties about Chapter 13 of Home Office Circular 34/2000, "Home Office guidance on football-related legislation". This chapter deals specifically with charging for policing football.