§ Kate HoeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the total cost was of policing football matches in the 2002–03 season; and how much of the total cost was paid by football clubs. [135751]
§ Kate HoeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects the working group on policing at football matches to report; and if he will list the membership of the working group. [135752]
§ Ms BlearsThe working group set up to consider matters associated with the resources deployed, and cost of, policing football is still considering a range of complex issues. The group has met on a number of occasions but has not concluded its deliberations. It would be premature to speculate on the outcome but a final or interim report will be sought early next year.
The group's core membership is Home Office, Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Association of Chief Police Officers, Association of Police Authorities, Football Association. Football League, Premier League and Football Licensing Authority.