HC Deb 24 May 2002 vol 386 cc705-6W
Mr. Hepburn

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what discussions have taken place following the acts of violence committed by Millwall supporters following the club's Division One play-off match against Birmingham; [57162]

(2) what further plans he has to combat football hooliganism: [57163]

(3) what recent discussions have taken place between the Government, football authorities and clubs to help eradicate hooliganism. [57164]

Mr. Denham

Government, police and football authorities have worked closely together to make our football stadia among the safest and most secure in the world and to marginalise hooliganism. It has never been claimed that the phenomenon has been eradicated and it is evident that certain clubs continue to attract a disproportionate number of potential troublemakers. Tough legislation is in place for dealing with miscreants and, prior to next season, Government will be hosting discussions with key policing and football agencies to identify what further action is required.