[{"topic":"Sports","id":"44226","proposer":"24794","edm":"94","session":"2012-13","title":"Scottish Cup Final","text":"That this House congratulates Heart of Midlothian Football Club on its victory in the Scottish Cup; praises the valiant efforts of runners-up Hibernian Football Club; notes that the final was the first time that the two Edinburgh teams have met in the Scottish Cup Final since 1896; applauds both teams on reaching the final stages of the competition; and believes that such sporting success in Scotland's capital is an excellent way of attracting youngsters to the game.","date":"2012-05-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44231","proposer":"10062","edm":"99","session":"2012-13","title":"Lacrosse","text":"That this House supports the English Lacrosse Association's bid to host the 2017 Women's Lacrosse World Championships in Guildford; notes that this bid comes at no cost to the taxpayer and will provide substantial investment to both the local and national economy; further notes that lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK and internationally and is played by children, men and women from all backgrounds; acknowledges that the extraordinary growth and success of lacrosse is being achieved in spite of the anomaly whereby lacrosse does not receive the financial assistance which is made available to comparable sports; further notes that the absence of elite sports funding makes it more difficult for English lacrosse to compete internationally; regrets that lacrosse does not yet hold Olympic sport status; and wishes both the English men's and women's teams every success in the Lacrosse European Championships in the Netherlands in June 2012.","date":"2012-05-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44232","proposer":"24945","edm":"100","session":"2012-13","title":"Munich Olympic Killings","text":"That this House notes that the London 2012 Olympic Games will be the 40th anniversary of the murder of 11 members of the Israeli team at the Munich Olympics of 1972; furthernotes that for 40 years their families have asked the International Olympic Committee to observe a minute's silence in their memory; believes that it would be a fitting tribute to the memory of the 11 Israeli athletes, coaches and referees to hold a minute's silence at this year's and every subsequent Games to promote peace; and urges the International Olympic Committee to honour the memory of those murdered in 1972 by holding a minute's silence.","date":"2012-05-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44233","proposer":"10029","edm":"101","session":"2012-13","title":"York City Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates York City Football Club on its two outstandingly successful victories at Wembley in May 2012 to win the FA Trophy and promotion to the Football League; welcomes the proposal to build a new Community Stadium in York; and wishes the club every success in its first season back in the Football League.","date":"2012-05-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44200","proposer":"10383","edm":"68","session":"2012-13","title":"Ban On Pedicabs During The London 2012 Olympics","text":"That this House notes with concern the danger posed by pedicabs to the general public and visitors to London during the Olympic and Paralympic Games; further notes that the drivers of such pedicabs have had no Criminal Records Bureau or police checks and as such may not be fit and proper persons; is dismayed by the lack of classification of pedicabs and subsequently lack of fare structure exposing the public and visitors to extortionate charges; is shocked that pedicabs have not been crash tested and are subsequently not possible to insure; and recognises that banning the operation of pedicabs during the Olympics is necessary to reduce congestion and in particular its impact on the emergency services.","date":"2012-05-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44173","proposer":"24963","edm":"41","session":"2012-13","title":"Northern Football League","text":"That this House recognises the ongoing success of the Northern Football League, which is the second oldest football league in the world and is based in the North East of England, comprising teams from the county football associations of Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland and North Yorkshire; applauds the outstanding achievement of two of its clubs, Dunston UTS and West Auckland in reaching the final of the FA Vase, which is to be contested at Wembley on 13 May 2012; and recognises that supporters from non-league clubs throughout England will travel to Wembley to view what will be a truly historic day for both clubs, the Northern League and North East football.","date":"2012-05-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44131","proposer":"11817","edm":"3023","session":"2010-12","title":"Promotion Of Shrewsbury Town Football Club To League One","text":"That this House congratulates the players, staff and management of Shrewsbury Town Football Club on winning promotion to Football League One; acknowledges its excellent achievement of securing automatic promotion with a game still to play; commends club chairman Roland Wycherley, who has been at the helm for 15 years, for his dedication and services to the club; notes the hard work and success of the manager Graham Turner; and looks forward toShrewsbury Town Football Club playing League One football next season.","date":"2012-04-30","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44123","proposer":"10062","edm":"3015","session":"2010-12","title":"Lacrosse","text":"That this House supports the English Lacrosse Association's bid to host the 2017 Women's Lacrosse World Championships in Guildford; notes that this bid comes at no cost to the taxpayer and will provide substantial investment to both the local and national economy; further notes that lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK and internationally and is played by children, men and women from all backgrounds; acknowledges that the extraordinary growth and success of lacrosse is being achieved in spite of the anomaly whereby lacrosse does not receive the financial assistance which is made available to comparable sports; further notes that the absence of elite sports funding makes it more difficult for English lacrosse to compete internationally; regrets that lacrosse does not yet hold Olympic sport status; and wishes both the English men's and women's teams every success in the Lacrosse European Championships in the Netherlands in June 2012.","date":"2012-04-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44115","proposer":"10383","edm":"3007","session":"2010-12","title":"Chester Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Chester Football Club on winning the Evo Stik Northern Premier League title; acknowledges their remarkable achievement in scoring over 100 goals and amassing 100 points to win a second successive championship since this phoenix club, from the ashes of Chester City FC, was formed by City Fans United two years ago; and commends the community club as an excellent model of supporter ownership.","date":"2012-04-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44100","proposer":"11672","edm":"2992","session":"2010-12","title":"English National Anthem","text":"That this House welcomes the calls and campaign for an English national anthem including by British Future and by Anthem4England; supports the letter signed by hon. Members from across the House calling for England to have its own national anthem, just as Scotland and Wales do when they compete as individual nations; believes it quite wrong that England uses the UK national anthem when competing as England rather than as Great Britain or the UK and that this confuses England and Britain\/the UK and is damaging to the unity of the UK; notes that an English anthem for the talented and diverse teams that represent us on the sporting field would help modern patriotic pride to defeat prejudice; applauds the British Future campaign and Anthem4England for their work on this issue; adds that St George's Day, ahead of Euro 2012, is an ideal moment for the Government to speak up for English identity and an English national anthem; and therefore calls on the Government to get behind the campaign for an English national anthem calling on all English sporting associations to adopt an appropriate song that English sportsmen and women and the English public would favour when competing as England.","date":"2012-04-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44082","proposer":"11174","edm":"2974","session":"2010-12","title":"Cup Final Transport","text":"That this House is disappointed by the collective decision-making of Network Rail and the Football Association, which through the planning of engineering works and the arranging of a late kick-off for what must be solely commercial reasons, have together managed to ensure that Liverpool supporters travelling to London for the FA Cup Final will be forced to endure slow and heavily crowded train or replacement services back to Liverpool or will have to remain in London until after the weekend; believes that this is grossly unfair to those many thousands of fans paying good money to go and watch their team play; and calls on all involved to take the action necessary to ensure that disruption is minimised as much as possible.","date":"2012-04-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44090","proposer":"10428","edm":"2982","session":"2010-12","title":"Grand National","text":"That this House welcomes the efforts made by the horseracing industry to improve safety for the running of the 2012 Aintree Grand National; regrets the fatalities of two horses in this year's running of the race; notes that the decade since 2000 is the safest on record for the race; sincerely hopes that recent changes will be shown over time to have reduced risk, whilst understanding it is not alwayspossible to remove this entirely from such an arduous and competitive event; considers this annual contest to be an important part of racing sporting endeavour and recognises its place in British history since its first running in 1839; observes its continued popularity in the UK and across the world with an estimated global audience in excess of half a billion people; and fully understands that every effort must be made further to improve safety for all horses and jockeys participating and for safety improvements to be properly considered and judged continuously whilst every effort is made to maintain the essence of what makes the Grand National the most popular horse race in the UK calendar.","date":"2012-04-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44066","proposer":"10436","edm":"2958","session":"2010-12","title":"VAT On Sports Nutrition Drinks","text":"That this House notes that the Chancellor of the Exchequer has permitted only six weeks for consultation on his proposal to impose Value Added Tax on many sports nutrition drinks and that those weeks included two bank holidays and the Easter recess, contrary to the Government's Code of Practice on Consultation which requires 12 weeks; observes that the impact assessment accompanying the consultation wrongly describes the 20 per cent VAT rate as a small increase in price; regrets that this move will push up prices for such products and damage small, specialist manufacturers, will have a negative impact upon jobs and growth, undermine consumer safety by driving customers to source products from less reputable overseas mail order and internet suppliers and, in the year of the London Olympics, send out the wrong messages about the importance of sport and exercise in improving public health; further observes that HM Revenue and Customs has also failed to take into account the reduced UK tax revenues associated with a switch to off-shore sourcing and the reduction in wider UK tax revenues from the sector as sales reduce, profits fall and employment is affected; considers the move to be bizarre when milkshakes, drinking chocolate and jaffa cakes continue to be zero-rated; and urges the Chancellor to think again.","date":"2012-04-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44077","proposer":"11221","edm":"2969","session":"2010-12","title":"Ethical Trading Standards And The London 2012 Olympics","text":"That this House is concerned about press reports that UK Olympians will be asked to wear sporting equipment produced by exploited child labour; is further concerned that successful Olympians will be presented with medals produced by multi-national company Rio Tinto who have locked out their entire workforce in Alma, Quebec without any serious consultation; and, therefore calls on the Government and the Olympics governing body to ensure that ethical trading standards will be maintained during a hopefully successful Olympics in the UK.","date":"2012-04-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44078","proposer":"10133","edm":"2970","session":"2010-12","title":"Bahrain Grand Prix And Human Rights","text":"That this House is astonished that the Bahrain Formula 1 race is going ahead despite huge concerns over abuse of human rights expressed by Amnesty International and others; notes that a trial is continuing of 52 medical professionals who tried to help victims of the suppression of protests; believes that the Formula 1 race will be used by the Bahrain government as an endorsement of its policies of suppression of dissent; and accordingly calls for its cancellation.","date":"2012-04-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44055","proposer":"24794","edm":"2947","session":"2010-12","title":"All-Edinburgh Scottish Cup Final","text":"That this House congratulates Edinburgh's Hibernian and Heart of Midlothian football clubs after their dramatic victories over Aberdeen and Celtic, respectively; notes that it is the first time that the two teams will meet in the Scottish Cup Final since 1896; recognises the positive effect that the all-Edinburgh final will have on the game in Edinburgh; believes that the all-Edinburgh final should be played at the capital's Murrayfield stadium; and further recognises that, allied with Edinburgh Rugby's success over Toulouse, this is proving to be a wonderful sporting spring for Scotland's capital city.","date":"2012-04-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44059","proposer":"10383","edm":"2951","session":"2010-12","title":"Greenwash Gold 2012","text":"That this House welcomes the launch by Bhopal Medical Appeal, London Mining Network and UK Tar Sands Network of the Greenwash Gold 2012 awards exposing the record of environmental destruction and human rights abuses of the companies BP, Rio Tinto and Dow, which are major sponsors of the 2012 Olympics; and urges the Olympic authorities to bring forward reforms of the process by which Olympic sponsors are selected so that known polluters and human rights abusers are never allowed to tarnish the image of the Olympics again.","date":"2012-04-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44045","proposer":"10133","edm":"2938","session":"2010-12","title":"Ending Discrimination Against Women Athletes In Saudi Arabia","text":"That this House is encouraged by reports that Saudi Arabia, as well as Qatar and Brunei, plans to send women competitors to the London 2012 Olympics, the first time women from those countries will compete in the Olympic Games; believes in the fundamental principles of the Olympic Charter which state, inter alia, that `the practice of sport is a human right' and that `every individual must have the possibility of practising sport, without discrimination of any kind'; and calls on the International Olympic Committee and the UK Government to urge the government of Saudi Arabia to remove the barriers that currently deny women and girls access to sporting facilities and prevent them from exercising and taking part in sporting activities and competitions.","date":"2012-03-27","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44047","proposer":"24966","edm":"2940","session":"2010-12","title":"John Bishop And Sports Relief","text":"That this House notes that comedian John Bishop cycled from Paris to Calais, rowed from Calais to Dover and then ran from Dover to London; further notes that John Bishop has raised millions of pounds for the Sports Relief charity; believes that this selfless act is an inspiration to the whole nation; and thanks him on behalf of the whole country.","date":"2012-03-27","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44031","proposer":"24935","edm":"2924","session":"2010-12","title":"Sport Relief 2012","text":"That this House recognises the fantastic achievement of sports stars and celebrities from around the country who raised a record amount through their charity fundraising efforts for Sport Relief; supports the aims to bring together the entire nation to get active, raise cash and change lives; notes the outstanding personal achievements of David Walliams and the Herculean efforts of Liverpool comic JohnBishop; congratulates the ordinary people of the UK who also participated in their millions to raise money for good causes; and applauds all those who gave of their time for free to help others less fortunate.","date":"2012-03-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44019","proposer":"10614","edm":"2913","session":"2010-12","title":"Leicester Tigers Winners Of The Lv= Cup","text":"That this House joins the city of Leicester in celebrating the brilliant win by Leicester Tigers, 26-14, in the Rugby Union LV= Cup final against Northampton Saints on 18 March 2012; is delighted with the wonderful performance shown by the Tigers to beat their resolute and determined opponents; and recognises the importance of sport in bringing communities together and encouraging cohesion.","date":"2012-03-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44005","proposer":"11093","edm":"2900","session":"2010-12","title":"Lee Westwood","text":"That this House welcomes the awarding on 20 March 2012 of the first ever Freedom of the District of Bassetlaw to Lee Westwood, Britain's top golfer and one of the few UK sports stars to reach the pinnacle of world number 1 in their sport; congratulates Lee on this much deserved accolade and wishes him well in his golfing throughout 2012; notes with approval that Lee Westwood has remained loyal to his home town of Worksop, remained active in local golf and in particular has used his iconic status to encourage young people to take up golf; further congratulates Worksop Golf Club for the support it has given Lee in his golf career; and recognises the importance of Kilton Forest municipal golf course in providing Lee Westwood with his first opportunity to play golf whilst at school in Worksop.","date":"2012-03-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43990","proposer":"24743","edm":"2885","session":"2010-12","title":"Welsh Rugby Grand Slam","text":"That this House congratulates the Welsh rugby team on an incredible third Grand Slam in eight seasons; further congratulates the players, coaching team and supporters for the manner in which they have conducted themselves during this year's Six Nations tournament; believes that the national rugby side's success shows that the potential of the people of Wales is endless; and looks forward to the future development of the national side in the coming years.","date":"2012-03-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43997","proposer":"10298","edm":"2892","session":"2010-12","title":"Wales Rugby Victories","text":"That this House congratulates Wales on itsmagnificent win against France, a welcome reversal of the World Cup result when these two teams last played; further congratulates the team onits brilliant, popular and talented Grand Slamand Six Nations Championship victories; and looks forward to the continuing success of this talented young squad between now and the start of the next Rugby World Cup in 2015.","date":"2012-03-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43999","proposer":"11672","edm":"2894","session":"2010-12","title":"Stuart Lancaster","text":"That this House congratulates Stuart Lancaster for his performance as interim England manager during England's strong showing in the 2012 Six Nations; notes that under his leadership the side won four out of five games, including three away games, for the first time in the history of the Six Nations; further notes that he has brought through a number of young players, demonstrating good judgement and vision for the future of the national side; considers that it is time for the national side to once again have a permanent manager who can direct English rugby's direction and strategy in the long-term; and calls on the Rugby Football Union to appoint Stuart Lancaster to the position permanently with immediate effect.","date":"2012-03-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"44001","proposer":"10610","edm":"2896","session":"2010-12","title":"Unauthorised Disclosure Of Briefing Papers Relating To The Hillsborough Disaster","text":"That this House regrets the recent serious leak of selective sections of particular briefing papers relating to the Hillsborough disaster in 1989 and the way in which it was initially reported; recognises the commendable work of the Hillsborough Independent Panel in sifting through the additional volume of documents released following the parliamentary debate on full disclosure; notes that further leaks would be a breach of trust and must be prevented to avoid yet more hurt and distress being caused to families and survivors; and supports the announcement by the Home Secretary in the House of an inquiry into the leak.","date":"2012-03-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43983","proposer":"13864","edm":"2878","session":"2010-12","title":"Ruc Athletic Association","text":"That this House notes the proposals to change the name of the RUC Athletic Association to the Police Athletic Association; asserts that retaining the name of the RUC Athletic Associationshould not have adverse funding implications; acknowledges the rich historic heritage of the RUC Athletic Associationat Newforge; and supports those members who wish to retain this name and symbol.","date":"2012-03-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43986","proposer":"10415","edm":"2881","session":"2010-12","title":"Olympic Legacy Programme In Blackpool","text":"That this House congratulates the partnership of Blackpool Football Club, NHS Blackpool and Blackpool Council on the launch of their Olympic Legacy Programme, Altogether Now, which aims to underline the unique achievement of the UK's 2012 Olympics by a programme of physical and sporting activities involving all ages, interests and backgrounds across the town; notes that Blackpool is the only town in the UK outside of London that has achieved 100 per cent. involvement from all its schools and educational settings for its Get Set Olympic Programme; and congratulates John Blackledge of Blackpool Council and all his team in the programme for their work, enthusiasm and achievement in taking this Olympic Legacy Programme forward.","date":"2012-03-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43962","proposer":"24935","edm":"2858","session":"2010-12","title":"David Moyes And Everton Football Club","text":"That this House recognises the dedicated service to Everton Football Club of David Moyes; congratulates him on his10 year unbroken service as the Premier League's third longest serving manager; notes his recognition of the rising costs of attending football matches and his call for a 20 per cent. reduction in ticket prices; and further recognises his commitment to local community and charity projects.","date":"2012-03-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43823","proposer":"24771","edm":"2723","session":"2010-12","title":"Hotel Accommodation During London 2012 Olympics","text":"That this House is concerned about complaints from constituents that they cannot book hotel rooms of leading value chains in London during the London 2012 Olympics; and calls on the Government and the Office of Fair Trading to investigate this practice.","date":"2012-02-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43804","proposer":"10358","edm":"2705","session":"2010-12","title":"Twentieth Anniversary Of The Southern Water Learn To Swim Scheme","text":"That this House congratulates the award-winning Southern Water Learn to Swim scheme, which is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this year; notes that the scheme has now helped to teach more than 600,000 children to swim; recognises the work of Southern Water in continuing to promote the scheme, in addition to the dedicated staff who act as voluntary pool co-ordinators, and the army of more than 1,000 swimming instructors who make the scheme possible; and values the contribution of this scheme in helping children aged four to 12complete this vital part of the National Curriculum and attain a life-enhancing and life-saving skill.","date":"2012-02-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43793","proposer":"10133","edm":"2694","session":"2010-12","title":"Belarus And The Ice Hockey World Championships","text":"That this House notes that in Belarus all theatre and art managers are appointed by the Ministry of Culture and approved by the head of state; understands that the Belarus Free Theatre is an underground theatre group that began in March 2005 as an artistic means of resisting Belarusian pressure and censorship; further notes that rehearsals and performances are normally held secretly in small private apartments due to the need for security and the risk of persecution; is appalled that audience members have been arrested, actors have been subject to death threats and intimidation and that company founders Nikolai Khalezin and Natalia Koliada have been arrested many times and imprisoned for organising and participating in civil resistance rallies; believes that the International Ice Hockey Federation plans to hold the 2014 Ice Hockey World Championships in Belarus; supports the campaign by human rights groups such as Free Belarus Now and its founder, Irina Bogdanova and prominent playwright Tom Stoppard amongst others to move the Championships out of Belarus; and calls on the Government to make representations to the Belarusian authorities to free all political prisoners and end the repression of the arts in Belarus.","date":"2012-02-06","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43749","proposer":"24735","edm":"2652","session":"2010-12","title":"Livingston Youth Foundation Ltd","text":"That this House welcomes the launch of the Livingston Youth Foundation Ltd, a ground-breaking new partnership between Livingston Football Club, the Scottish Football Association, West Lothian Leisure, West Lothian Council, West Lothian College, former players and local community clubs and businesses, which has the objective of bringing together various providers of football to improve the co-ordination and quality of provision and expand opportunities for young people in West Lothian to participate in the sport; notes that the Foundation will also seek to use football as an activity to promote the educational and health development of young people who are typically less engaged with these activities and may be failing to achieve their full potential; and commends Livingston FC and all the other agencies involved in establishing the Foundation for developing this initiative and wishes them every success.","date":"2012-01-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43745","proposer":"10780","edm":"2648","session":"2010-12","title":"Northern Ireland Football","text":"That this House recognises the significant improvement in the standing of football in Northern Ireland; acknowledges the considerable improvement in women's football; the fact that the CIS League Cup Final on Saturday between Coleraine and Crusaders had to have additional temporary seating provided such was the demand for tickets and the fact that there are currently five managers who were born in Northern Ireland in the Premier Leagues in England and Scotland; and expresses the hope that the newly appointed manager of the Northern Ireland team Michael O'Neill will bring further success to the current home international champions.","date":"2012-01-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43740","proposer":"10381","edm":"2643","session":"2010-12","title":"Afc Wimbledon And The Drop The Dons Campaign","text":"That this House welcomes the Drop the Dons campaign launched by the Wimbledon Guardian, which calls for Milton Keynes Dons FC to remove Dons fromits name; believes that such a move would recognise the achievement of AFC Wimbledon, the original Dons, for rising in just nine years from the bottom of the football pyramid to the Football League in the best possible way, by promotion on merit; notes that AFC Wimbledon was established when local fans set up their own community club after the football authorities' decision to allow Wimbledon FC to move its franchise to Milton Keynes in 2002, a decision that continues to cause much anger within the football community; and believes that by removing Dons fromits name, Milton KeynesDons FC will remove much of the stigma associated with that club and giveit a greater opportunity to attract more local support.","date":"2012-01-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43617","proposer":"10208","edm":"2522","session":"2010-12","title":"VAT And Five-A-side Football Leagues","text":"That this House believes that the decision by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to apply the standard rate of VAT to the provision of five-a-side football leagues will be damaging to participation in sport; notes that the decision affects schools and communities that are recipients of free access to high quality football facilities provided by operators of five-a-side football leagues; further believes that five-a-side football should be encouraged, given its contribution to the Olympic and Paralympic sporting participation goals, particularly as participation in five-a-side football is currently far higher than participation in 11-a-side football; and calls on the Government to instruct HMRC to continue to apply VAT-exempt status to the provision of five-a-side football leagues, as has been the case for more than 20 years.","date":"2011-12-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43613","proposer":"10521","edm":"2518","session":"2010-12","title":"Payments To Football Agents","text":"That this House is appalled to learn that in the past year nearly 72 million was paid by clubs in the FA Premier League to football agents, an increase from the previous year's 67 million and nearly 71 million the year before that, making a total of around 210 million taken out of the game in just three years; agrees with the observation of Mr Patrick Collins, Chief Sports Writer of The Mail on Sunday newspaper that this towering mountain of money is now swilling around the bank accounts of various spivs and chancers, leeches and parasites and his further comments that this is money which football has generated, yet will never enjoy; notes that the loss to football is even greater when payments to agents in the three divisions of the Football League are included; concludes that the Football Association and the Football League have failed to deal with this cancer in the national sport; and calls on the Government to legislate so that the obscene sums of money which agents are currently taking outof the game are distributed to benefit football at all levels including school football.","date":"2011-12-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43600","proposer":"24767","edm":"2505","session":"2010-12","title":"Arthur `artie' Beetson","text":"That this House notes with sadness the death of Rugby League legend Arthur `Artie' Beetson; remembers that `Artie' played for Hull Kingston Rovers with great distinction and has left a legacy in East Hull that has not diminished over the years; further notes that he was named in the team of the century and is a member of the Rugby League Hall of Fame; recognises that he went on to be the first aboriginal to captain any Australian national sporting team; further recognises his inspiring effect on indigenous Australians, encouraging many to take up not only sport but education and employment opportunities; and expresses its deepest sympathy to his family.","date":"2011-12-05","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43581","proposer":"24743","edm":"2486","session":"2010-12","title":"Tribute To Rugby Player Shane Williams","text":"That this House notes that Shane Williams from the Amman Valley in Carmarthenshire will play his ninety-firstand final international test match on 3December 2011; further notes that during his international career he has scored 59 international tries, the third highest by an individual in the history of international rugby and Wales' leading try scorer of all time; further notes that his dazzling brilliance has brought euphoric joy to Welsh rugby supporters and earned admiration across the rugby world; further notes that Shane was named International Rugby Board player of the year in 2008; and believes a famous Welsh victory over Australia on Saturday would be a fitting end to a remarkable international career.","date":"2011-11-29","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43586","proposer":"10159","edm":"2491","session":"2010-12","title":"Sports Women And BBC Sports Personality Of The Year","text":"That this House is disappointed that there are no women in this year's BBC Sports Personality of the Year shortlist; notes the lack of women in previous year's shortlists; further notes that high profile women in sport play an important role in encouraging women and girls to participate in sports; and calls on the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport to do more to involve and promote women in sport.","date":"2011-11-29","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43578","proposer":"24743","edm":"2483","session":"2010-12","title":"Gary Speed","text":"That this House notes with sadness the death of the manager of the Welsh national football team, Gary Speed; remembers that Gary was Wales' most capped outfield player with 85 caps and served Leeds, Everton, Newcastle, Bolton and Sheffield United with distinction; further notes that, in a 22 year career as a professional player, Gary played in nearly 700 league games including 535 Premier League matches; recognises that the Welsh national team was making significant progress under his guidance; further recognises his inspiring effect on players and supporters alike; appreciates the sorrow and loss that his death has left amongst players and football supporters from Wales and beyond; calls for greater understanding of the pressures placed on those in the media spotlight andof mental health issues in general; and expresses its deepest sympathy to his family.","date":"2011-11-28","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43513","proposer":"11672","edm":"2423","session":"2010-12","title":"Display Of Poppies By Rugby League Teams","text":"That this House welcomes the fact that all four teams playing in this weekend's Four Nations Rugby League test matches will be proudly displaying poppies on their jerseys; commends the Rugby League International Federation and the Rugby Football League for permitting teams to display the symbolic poppy during the games over Remembrance weekend, England v New Zealand on 12 November 2011 and Wales v Australia on 13 November 2011; and recognises the importance of sports teams being able to display this extremely important symbol during the Remembrance period and to show their support for servicemen and women and the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.","date":"2011-11-10","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43493","proposer":"10428","edm":"2403","session":"2010-12","title":"Achievements Of The Boxers Ricky Burns And John Simpson","text":"That this House congratulates the professional Scottish boxers Ricky Burns from Coatbridge, who now holds both the Lightweight and Super Featherweight world titles and John Simpson from Greenock, who shortly is to challenge for the World Featherweight Championship; notes that these fine athletes have also won an array of other titles including Commonwealth and multi-British Lonsdale Belt defences; and believes both are great ambassadors for sport and a credit to the nation.","date":"2011-11-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43495","proposer":"11892","edm":"2405","session":"2010-12","title":"Mr Ronnie Mcfall Mbe","text":"That this House offers its congratulations to Mr Ronnie McFall MBE on his 25 years as Manager of Portadown football club; notes that he is the longest serving manager in the Irish League; further notes his four Irish Leaguechampionships, three Irish Cups and his five Manager of the Yearawards among his numerous successes; recognises and applauds the extensive youth and community work undertaken by Portadown FC during histenure; and wishes him continued success for the future.","date":"2011-11-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43496","proposer":"10428","edm":"2406","session":"2010-12","title":"Boxer Scott Harrison","text":"That this House congratulates the Scottish Area Boxing Council, its officials, especially Chairman Bernard Connolly and Secretary Brian McAllister for unanimously deciding to recommend to the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC), that pugilist Scott Harrison be returned the right to resume his professional boxing career; recalls that this athlete won the world title twice and successfully defended it on nine occasions; and calls on the BBBC to deal swiftly with this matter to enable this young man to restart his career at the earliest opportunity.","date":"2011-11-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43507","proposer":"24966","edm":"2417","session":"2010-12","title":"Fifa's Ban On Poppies","text":"That this House notes that all sporting bodies haveapublic duty that extends far beyond their own sports; further notes that FIFA has now backed down onits opposition to the wearing of Remembrance Poppies; believes that FIFAis dangerously out of touch with the public; and calls onit to reform in order to reflect betterits duty to the public.","date":"2011-11-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43485","proposer":"11221","edm":"2395","session":"2010-12","title":"Graeme Souness And Carlos Tevez","text":"That this House supports the criticism of Carlos Tevez by TV pundit Graeme Souness for his failure to play in a game against Bayern Munich which saw his club Manchester City beaten 2-1; agrees with Graeme Souness's comments regarding Tevez's selfish behaviour which are consistent with public opinion and epitomise the feelings of genuine fans about what is wrong with modern football; and believes that professional football players are paid to play and the Football Association and Sky Sports should support Graeme Souness in any future legal action against him for expressing his views.","date":"2011-11-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43287","proposer":"10614","edm":"2207","session":"2010-12","title":"Dow Chemical Company's Sponsorship Of London 2012","text":"That this House is deeply concerned that the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) has appointed the Dow Chemical Company to manufacture a wrap covering the Olympic stadium, purportedly costing 7 million; notes that Dow acquired the Union Carbide Corporation in 2001, responsible for the 1984 Bhopal Gas Disaster and implicated in the ongoing toxic disaster at Bhopal; is saddened that a UK charity, the Bhopal Medical Appeal, reports thousands depending on contaminated water, an ill-health epidemic and widespread birth deformities; and urges the Government to call on LOCOG to reconsider its association with Dow Chemical Company.","date":"2011-10-10","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43200","proposer":"11309","edm":"2126","session":"2010-12","title":"Blind Dave Heeley's Top2toe Challenge","text":"That this House sends its best wishes to West Bromwich marathon runner Blind Dave Heeley as he starts out on his latest endurance challenge to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support on its centenary anniversary; notes that Dave Heeley will cover 1,000 miles, including 10 marathons and 750 miles of tandem cycling, in just 10 days from John O'Groats to Land's End; recognises that Dave Heeley was the first blind person in the world to complete seven marathons in seven days on seven continents raising 375,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind in 2008; and congratulates Dave Heeley on acting as a truly inspirational role model for so many people in Sandwell and the wider community.","date":"2011-08-11","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43189","proposer":"11672","edm":"2115","session":"2010-12","title":"Great Britain Student Rugby League Team","text":"That this House congratulates the Great Britain Student Rugby League team on their historic test series win in Australia; recognises that it is the first time this has been achieved in Australia and is the first series win over Australian students since 2000; applauds the work of all the players, coaching staff and management team on the successful tour; and supports the ongoing work of all those involved in the Student Rugby League in developing a structure that allows players of all abilities to take part in rugby league football.","date":"2011-07-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43166","proposer":"10780","edm":"2095","session":"2010-12","title":"Darren Clarke","text":"That this House acknowledges Darren Clarke's magnificent victory at the British Open Golf tournament; welcomes that for the first time this century someone from our shores has won the Claret Jug, making victories for three Ulstermen golfers in major tournaments in the last 18 months; and calls on the Royal and Ancient to focus now on a British major event at Portrush golf course in Northern Ireland.","date":"2011-07-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43040","proposer":"13864","edm":"1971","session":"2010-12","title":"Engagement Of Christine Bleakley And Frank Lampard","text":"That this House recognises the contribution that Christine Bleakley makes to the entertainment industry; further notes the contribution that Frank Lampard makes to the sports industry; offers congratulations to them both on the news of their recent engagement; and sends them both its warmest wishes for their future together.","date":"2011-06-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43044","proposer":"24743","edm":"1975","session":"2010-12","title":"Independence Of UK Footballing Associations","text":"That this House notes the grave concerns expressed by many supporters, players and the Football Associations of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland following the decision of the British Olympic Association (BOA) and the English Football Association (FA) to enter a Great Britain Football Team in next year's Olympic Games; calls for the British Olympic Association to withdraw the misleading press release that calls the BOA and FA deal an historic agreement when three of the four footballing associations remain implacably opposed; believes that a single United Kingdom football representative team playing in the Olympic Games represents a threat to the football independence of Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland; further notes previous attempts from Jack Warner and other FIFA members to merge the four associations; welcomes reassurances from Sepp Blatter that the independence of these footballing nations is not currently under threat but notes widespread media concern, including from many Team GB supporters, about the alleged behaviour of some FIFA officials and does not believe that previous reassurances are sufficient to provide peace of mind with regards to any future consequences which may arise from a Team GB football side representing the four associations; supports the continuation of four independent associations; and looks forward to a successful Olympic Games.","date":"2011-06-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43023","proposer":"10534","edm":"1954","session":"2010-12","title":"Free Range Kids Campaign","text":"That this House welcomes the launch of the Sustrans Free Range Kids campaign; calls on the Government to reverse the decline in the proportion of children walking and cycling to school; acknowledges the barriers which prevent children from being able to walk, cycle and play outside as a result of safety concerns; and urges Ministers across transport, health, environment and education briefs to work in a joined-up way to inspire, encourage and support local authorities to invest consistently and coherently over the next 10 years to create safe and pleasant environments for walking and cycling which will not only benefit the health of children but alsothe environment and communities.","date":"2011-06-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"43010","proposer":"10780","edm":"1941","session":"2010-12","title":"Rory Mcilroy","text":"That this House recognises the outstanding performance of Rory McIlroy at the age of just 22 years in winning the US Open Golf Championship at the Congressional Club; acknowledges the justifiable pride his family and friends have expressed in his winning this prize at such an early age; further recognises that the people of Northern Ireland, a country of just 1.7 million people, are delighted to have had two consecutive winners of the US Open in Graham McDowell in 2010 and Rory McIlroy in 2011, an achievement unprecedented in modern golf for a country of that size, no other country outside the US having ever done so in the last 100 years; and expresses the hope that these victories will lead to a further increase in the numbers of visitors wishing to play golf in the location that has given birth to two of the finest golfers in the world today.","date":"2011-06-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42994","proposer":"10576","edm":"1926","session":"2010-12","title":"Sir Alex Ferguson","text":"That this House recognises the economic, social, cultural and sporting importance of football to the United Kingdom; is therefore surprised at the paucity of representatives from the world of football in the Upper House; further notes that Sir Alex Ferguson, as the manager of Aberdeen and Manchester United, is the most successful manager inthe history of British football; and calls for him to be recommended for appointment to the House of Lords.","date":"2011-06-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42996","proposer":"11559","edm":"1928","session":"2010-12","title":"Queen's Park Rangers Fc","text":"That this House congratulates Queen's Park Rangers Football Club on winning the Championship and being promoted to the Premier League; acknowledges the skill, dedication and effort of Neil Warnock, his management team and players and the enthusiasm and loyalty of QPR fans worldwide; and looks forward to the return of Premiership football to Shepherds Bush and the continuation of the wonderful contribution the club makes to the local community through the activities of its outreach team, QPR in the Community Trust.","date":"2011-06-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42971","proposer":"10274","edm":"1903","session":"2010-12","title":"Jarrovians Rugby Union Football Club Help For Heroes Campaign","text":"That this House expresses its support to members of Jarrovians Rugby Union Football Club (RUFC), located in Jarrow constituency, which is planning a Guinness Book of Records bid by getting teams of its friends and supporters to walk all the peaks in the Lake District on 18 June 2011, with all proceeds donated to the Help for Heroes charity, which was created to help wounded servicemen and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan; acknowledges that this worthwhile fundraising event will ensure that the money raised goes to those who need it most; and wishes everyone associated with Jarrovians RUFC well in their efforts to give troops serving in Afghanistan and Iraq the help and support they need.","date":"2011-06-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42977","proposer":"24714","edm":"1909","session":"2010-12","title":"Funding Arrangements For Supporters Direct","text":"That this House notes that the Premier League has declined a funding request from Supporters Direct (the national body that supports and delivers supporters' trusts); believes that this decision hindered the development of supporter involvement in running football clubs; further notes that as a result communities and supporters will be hindered in gaining a voice in the running of clubs; further notes that the Government's stated support for more fan involvement in clubs as set out in the Coalition Agreement is made more difficult; and calls on the Government to reaffirm its support for Supporters Direct and its aims by making representations to the Premier League to recognise its decision.","date":"2011-06-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42937","proposer":"10074","edm":"1870","session":"2010-12","title":"Bahrain Grand Prix","text":"That this House expresses concern over Formula One's (F1) decision to re-schedule the Bahrain Grand Prix in October in the current political climate in that country; deplores the current repressive measures conducted by the Bahraini government towards legitimate democratic protestors; notes that the staging of the Grand Prix in Bahrain may well deflect attention from these critical protests; further notes that the Grand Prix could act as a focal point for clashes, endangering both participants and spectators of the Grand Prix; questions F1 over its decision to re-schedule the Grand Prix inlight of the recent situation; believes that theBahrain Grand Prix should not go ahead and that F1 should re-consider its decision immediately; and calls on the Government to express its grave misgivings over the decision and to do all it can to see that the decision is reversed.","date":"2011-06-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42938","proposer":"24784","edm":"1871","session":"2010-12","title":"Fifa And The World Cup Tournaments In 2018 And 2022","text":"That this House notes with concern the alleged corruption of FIFA, which is now a discredited organisation; believes that the British Football Association should withdraw its association with FIFA immediately, and that FIFA should not be allocated any Olympics or Paralympics tickets in 2012, until FIFA puts its house in order; and calls for the two World Cup tournaments of 2018 and 2022 to be re-opened immediately to new bids, with a fair and transparent contest.","date":"2011-06-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42940","proposer":"24932","edm":"1873","session":"2010-12","title":"Rugby League And Homophobia And Transphobia In Sport","text":"That this House applauds the work of rugby league, the sport's governing body and all the teams in the Super League for their stance on tackling homophobia and transphobia in sport and ensuring that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are welcome in the sport of rugby league; acknowledges that rugby league is at the forefront of this work and recognises the sport as an example of best practice; congratulates the Rugby Football Leagueon becoming the first sporting organisation to be ranked in the Stonewall Workplace Index Top 100 organisations; congratulates all clubs in the Super League for simultaneously signing the Government's charter against homophobia and transphobia in sport; and would like to see more sports bodies and clubs following the lead of rugby league in this important area.","date":"2011-06-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42943","proposer":"24743","edm":"1876","session":"2010-12","title":"Swansea City Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Swansea City Football Club on gaining promotion to the Premier League; acknowledges the vital part played by the vocal Jack army in supporting their team throughout the year; further congratulates the directors of the club on their enormous contribution over the last nine years and for saving the club from oblivion; notes that only eight years ago the club avoided relegation from the Football League following a 4-2 last game victory over Hull; and looks forward to the Swans exciting brand of football having a significant impact on the Premier League next season.","date":"2011-06-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42946","proposer":"10231","edm":"1879","session":"2010-12","title":"Promotion Of Afc Wimbledon To The Football League","text":"That this House applauds the outstanding achievement of AFC Wimbledon in being promoted to the Football League nine years after being formed, when the Football Association and its three-man sub-committee, to its everlasting shame, approved `franchise football' by sanctioning the relocation of Wimbledon FC to Milton Keynes in 2002 and the renaming of the club as MK Dons; and congratulates those fans who refused to accept the destruction of Wimbledon FC and rebuilt the club, which eight seasons and five promotions later, has rejoined the Football League.","date":"2011-06-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42926","proposer":"11672","edm":"1859","session":"2010-12","title":"Leeds Loves Rugby 2011 And Celebrating The 50th Anniversary Of Leeds' First Rugby League Championship","text":"That this House joins the city of Leeds in celebrating Leeds Loves Rugby 2011, running from 23 to 28 May 2011, a celebration of both rugby league and rugby union's contribution to the city, that also marks the anniversary of Leeds' first Rugby League Championship win in 1961; recognises the opportunity this provides for players, fans and the people of Leeds to celebrate the city's historic sporting heritage; and welcomes the organisation of a commemorative match between Leeds Rhinos and Warrington Wolves, the two teams involved in the Championship final of 1961, as well as other events to get other sports fans and local businesses involved.","date":"2011-05-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42911","proposer":"10116","edm":"1845","session":"2010-12","title":"Promotion Of Albion Rovers Football Club","text":"That this House warmly congratulates Albion Rovers Football Club on their well-deserved promotion to the Scottish Second Division; highly commends its Chairman and Board; acknowledges its enthusiastic manager Paul Martin; recognises the entire first team squad for the magnificent endeavours throughout the season, as well as their dedicated supporters; notes that this is their first promotion in 22 years; and considers their outstanding achievement as a credit to football and the town of Coatbridge.","date":"2011-05-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42889","proposer":"10780","edm":"1823","session":"2010-12","title":"Recognition Of Walter Smith","text":"That this Houserecognises the outstanding achievements of Walter Smith, recently retired manager of Glasgow Rangers FC, having guided the club to a Scottish Premier League 54th league title which was the third consecutive triumph at a time when the club's future was uncertain due to takeover speculation, and when the club had very scarce resources which itself led to a very small playing squad; and expresses hope that steps have already been taken to ensure that Mr Smith, who has been widely acknowledged by numerous football professionals on and off the pitch as being one of the most successful Scottish football managers in the past 50 years, will be suitably recognised in the forthcoming honours announcements.","date":"2011-05-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42873","proposer":"24852","edm":"1809","session":"2010-12","title":"Application Of VAT To Football League Pitch Block Bookings","text":"That this House notes with concern that a policy change by HM Revenue and Customs has resulted in a substantial increase in the costs of block booking a football league pitch; further notes that many teams, including constituents of Walsall South who play at the local Goals Soccer Centre, had until now not been charged VAT for the block booking of their league pitch due to long-standing VAT exemption regulations which allowed for a series of sports facility bookings to be VAT exempt; is concerned that the 20 per cent. increase in the cost of taking part in weekly football is threatening participation in sports and will therefore have a negative impact on health and well-being; and calls on the Government to take all possible steps to ensure that participation in physical activities, including league football, remains accessible and affordable.","date":"2011-05-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42864","proposer":"11672","edm":"1801","session":"2010-12","title":"Recognition Of Rugby League As A Level Three Sport By The Commonwealth Games Federation","text":"That this House welcomes the recognition of Rugby League as a level three sport by the Commonwealth Games Federation; congratulates those involved in the bid from the Rugby Football League and the Rugby League International Federation in creating a compelling and successful bid; praises the Commonwealth Games Federation for their unanimous decision; hopes that Rugby League will secure a presence at future Games and will be recognised as a truly international sport; and supports all those involved in their work with the regional Commonwealth Games association on development projects.","date":"2011-05-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42855","proposer":"24920","edm":"1793","session":"2010-12","title":"Protection Of Playing Fields","text":"That this House supports the protection and restoration of playing fields across the country to help inspire a generation to play sport as part of the mass participation legacy of theLondon 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games; welcomes and further supports the ongoing work of Sport England and Fields in Trust to protect playing fields; and encourages community groups, clubs and sports organisations in every part of the country to apply to the new National Lottery Fund to bringmore playing fields back to life.","date":"2011-05-11","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42845","proposer":"24919","edm":"1784","session":"2010-12","title":"Darlington And Whitley Bay Football Clubs","text":"<p>That this House congratulates Darlington Football Club and Whitley Bay Football Club which were successful in winning the Football Association Trophy and the Football Association Vase at Wembley Stadium on 7 May 2011 and 8 May 2011 respectively; and further congratulates players, managers, fans and directors of both clubs on their success in what was a truly historic weekend for North East non-league football.<\/p>","date":"2011-05-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42832","proposer":"10415","edm":"1772","session":"2010-12","title":"Blackpool Fc And Tribute To Jimmy Armfield Cbe","text":"That this House pays tribute to Jimmy Armfield CBE, former England and Blackpool Football Club captain on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of his retirement as a player; congratulates the Blackpool Supporters Associationfor commemorating this by commissioning a nine foot bronze statue of him in his playing days by international sculptor Les Johnson which Jimmy unveiled outside the Bloomfield Road ground on May Day; and considers it a worthy accolade to a man who as a player, manager and commentator, and as a legend in Blackpool for his tireless work for charities and in the local community, has exemplified the finest traditions of modesty and sportsmanship in the game.","date":"2011-05-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42789","proposer":"24935","edm":"1733","session":"2010-12","title":"Knighthood For Kenny Dalglish","text":"That this House notes the outstanding contribution to British football by Kenny Dalglish as both a player and manager; recognises his support alongside his wife Marina for charitable causes; further notes his continued support for the dignified campaign by the families of the 96 Liverpool FC supporters who died at the Hillsborough Disaster on 15 April 1989; calls on the Government to recommend that Kenny Dalglish be knighted; and believes that any award would be a fitting tribute to the Hillsborough families' unstinting campaign for justice for the 96.","date":"2011-04-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42791","proposer":"10197","edm":"1735","session":"2010-12","title":"Success Of The Mersey Tigers Basketball Team","text":"That this House warmly congratulates the Mersey Tigers basketball team on winning the British Basketball League (BBL) title; notes that the Tigers also won the BBL Trophy at the O2 Arena in March 2011 and are in contention to retain the BBL Playoff Trophy; further notes that basketball is an increasingly popular sport for families to enjoy; and expresses great pleasure that the British Basketball Team, which has members of the Mersey Tigers in its ranks, will be participating in the 2012 London Olympics, which will provide an excellent platform for the sport to further increase its appeal and support.","date":"2011-04-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42800","proposer":"10780","edm":"1744","session":"2010-12","title":"Tackling Sectarianism In Football","text":"That this House notes recent events in Scottish football; deplores the sending of explosive devices in the post to those connected with Celtic Football Club, including to the manager, Neil Lennon; also condemns all threats sent to those connected to both Rangers FC and Celtic FC; strongly commends the continuing work done by both clubs in trying to eradicate sectarianism; and calls on the UEFA footballing authorities to actively assist both clubs in this regard rather than exacerbating the problems by considering politically-motivated complaints such as those lodged recently against Rangers FC.","date":"2011-04-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42777","proposer":"10314","edm":"1721","session":"2010-12","title":"Hull Fc Rugby League Club And Community Development","text":"That this House celebrates the work of Hull FC rugby league club in communities north and south of the River Humber through its positive engagement with over 40,000 individuals every year, delivering work in the fields of health, social inclusion, education and physical activity; notes that their ability to engage, educate and inspire has seen dramatic positive local impacts; and commends the club as an example of an organisation with sustainable partnerships in the public, private and voluntary sectors.","date":"2011-04-05","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42759","proposer":"13934","edm":"1703","session":"2010-12","title":"India -\u0000 Winners Of The 2011 Cricket World Cup","text":"That this House congratulates India on winning the 2011 Cricket World Cup and acknowledges that India was the best team in the tournament and played excellent cricket throughout; further congratulates M S Dhoni, India's captain, on an exceptional performance in the final against Sri Lanka; and acknowledges the huge contribution to Indian cricket of Sachin Tendulkar and congratulates him on achieving that previously elusive World Cup winners medal.","date":"2011-04-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42773","proposer":"24837","edm":"1709","session":"2010-12","title":"Protection Of Bowling Greens (Development Control) Bill","text":"That this House notes the provisions of the Protection of Bowling Greens (Development Control) Bill introduced by the hon. Member for Barrow and Furness on 28 March 2011; further notes that bowling is a sport enjoyed by more than 400,000 people across Britain; recognises that bowling clubs are frequently community hubs and that the sport is a valuable source of physical, social and mental activity for many, including older people; further notes that large numbers of bowling greens have closed or are under threat as a result of sale for development or local authorities ceasing maintenance; believes that existing planning regulations have proved to be insufficient to adequately protect England's bowling greens; and supports the measures in the hon. Member for Barrow and Furness's bill to improve planning protection for greens and to introduce a community right to buy for any green proposed for disposal.","date":"2011-04-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42755","proposer":"24848","edm":"1700","session":"2010-12","title":"Guisborough Town Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Guisborough Town Football Club on their recent success in the North Riding FA Senior Cup Final after a 1-0 victory over local rivals Marske United, the decisive goal scored by Club Captain David Onions against his former club; notes that the reds were victorious over the yellows, a great sign for the future in East Cleveland, Teesside, North Yorkshire and the whole of the North East Region; and wishes Guisborough Town FC every success for the rest of the season in their bid for promotion.","date":"2011-04-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42746","proposer":"10614","edm":"1691","session":"2010-12","title":"India Vs Pakistan Semi-Final Of The Cricket World Cup","text":"That this House welcomes the success of India in its victory at the Cricket World Cup semi-final; notes the historic importance of the match between India and Pakistan, which was watched by more than a billion people; further notes the significance of the Indian and Pakistani prime ministers meeting at the match, the first time since the Mumbai terrorist attacks of 2008; and furtherwelcomes the fact that the spirit of `cricket democracy' becomes an integral part of the countries' bilateral relations.","date":"2011-03-31","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42724","proposer":"10231","edm":"1669","session":"2010-12","title":"Community Sports Facilities And Premier League Television Income","text":"That this House notes the Annual Review of the Football Foundation and commends the work it has done over the last 10 years in improving community sports facilities at grassroots level; further notes that the Premier League had a total income of 1.037 billion in 2009-10 of which only 15 million, 1.5 per cent. of this total income, was contributed to the Football Foundation; and believes that, at a time when grassroots sports facilities are being cut back as part of spending cuts, there is a compelling case for a levy being imposed on Premier League television income, with the proceeds being ring-fenced and administered by the Football Foundation and Sport England for the benefit of preserving and improving grassroots sports facilities.","date":"2011-03-29","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42672","proposer":"10882","edm":"1623","session":"2010-12","title":"Twickenham Rail Station And The 2015 Rugby World Cup","text":"That this House notes that the eyes of the world will be focused on London in 2015 for the Rugby World Cup, when more than 600,000 rugby fans from around the world will attend matches at Twickenham Stadium; recognises that Twickenham Station currently provides an inadequate and uninspiring gateway for rugby supporters, the world's media, VIPs and officials visiting the stadium, as it is run down, unkempt, inefficient and does not provide basic facilities such as adequate toilets or provision for people with disabilities; and calls on the Government to work closely with the Rugby Football Union, Network Rail and Richmond upon Thames Council to ensure that the necessary major improvements can be agreed now, and that London and the country, will therefore no longer be ashamed of the transport infrastructure at Twickenham when the third largest sporting event in the world takes place there in four years' time.","date":"2011-03-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42550","proposer":"10367","edm":"1511","session":"2010-12","title":"Ryan Giggs","text":"That this House records its congratulations to Ryan Giggs on the 20th anniversary of his debut for Manchester United on 2 March 1991; is aware that throughout his illustrious career he has developed a deserved reputation for sportsmanship and fair play; recognises that his skills have been admired throughout the world; that 20 years on he is now the country's most decorated player, and that he is widely seen as a role model for team mates and young footballers everywhere; thanks him for his contribution to the national game for both his club and his country, Wales; and wishes him all the very best for his future.","date":"2011-03-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42555","proposer":"10505","edm":"1516","session":"2010-12","title":"Future Of The Tote (No.2)","text":"That this House is aware that the Government is currently considering the future ownership of the Tote organisation; is further aware that this body is responsible for the employment of over 400 full-time employees as well as large numbers of part-time employees, principally at its Wigan headquarters, in its high street betting shops and among its travelling racecourse staff who provide betting provision in facilities at the 60 racecourses spread across Great Britain; recalls that successive administrations have stated publicly that any decision on this matter will be made in the best interests of racing and that after liabilities at least 50 per cent. of all proceeds raised will be returned to racing; notes that the Tote Foundation bid has been developed by all the leading organisations within racing, including members and officials of the current Tote Board, Jockey Club and the Horseman's Group, which holds within its membership organisations representing owners, trainers, breeders, jockeys and stable staff and is supported overwhelmingly by all to take on the role of managing and developing the Tote's future; notes that, last year, the Tote provided 19 million to racing and believes that this continuing income is crucial to the sport; and calls on the Government to announce that it agrees with the overwhelming body of opinion of those who work within the industry, together with those who support racing and largely cause the generation of its income, and to announce a decision to transfer ownership of the Tote to the Tote Foundation.","date":"2011-03-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42497","proposer":"10828","edm":"1466","session":"2010-12","title":"Barking And Dagenham Living The Dream Trust","text":"That this House congratulates the Barking and Dagenham Living the Dream Trust for its work in supporting the young talented athletes of Barking and Dagenham in preparing for the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games; notes in particular that over the past two years they have assisted over 30 local talented athletes and given out more than 22,000 in grants to assist in their training and preparation; is particularly pleased that at least six of these athletes are already seen as potential members of the Great Britain Olympic and Paralympic 2012 teams; and further notes that the Barking and Dagenham Living the Dream Trust is unique within the London boroughs for such fundraising and is positive proof of the local community supporting its local talent.","date":"2011-02-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42484","proposer":"11312","edm":"1454","session":"2010-12","title":"Brechin City Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Brechin City Football Club on its magnificent achievement in reaching the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup for the first time in its long history; further congratulates the players and Manager, Jim Weir; notes that Brechin City is one of the last remaining clubs owned by its members; regrets the decision of broadcasters not to cover the match on television; and calls on them to reconsider the decision and allow Brechiners everywhere to join in this historic occasion.","date":"2011-02-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42411","proposer":"24812","edm":"1386","session":"2010-12","title":"Cruden Bay Bowling Club And Youth Participation And Development","text":"That this House recognises the excellent work carried out by the members of Cruden Bay Bowling Club, Aberdeenshire, in the development of a youth section while commending their example to others; notes that the club now has the most junior members of any bowling club in the Buchan Bowling Association area; welcomes the enthusiasm shown by the young people of Cruden Bay for the opportunities afforded them by the club; further notes the boost this has given the club in terms of membership and participation in the sport; and congratulates the young people involved on their achievements at club, area and national league level.","date":"2011-02-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42386","proposer":"24910","edm":"1365","session":"2010-12","title":"Discrimination And Football","text":"That this House notes that February is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) History Month and welcomes the Justin Campaign which seeks to rid football of homophobia; congratulates the campaign on its great work in highlighting this issue, including the creation of Football v Homophobia, an annual international day opposing homophobia in football, which takes place on 19 February 2011; regrets that Justin Fashanu who died in 1998, and after whom the campaign is named, still remains the only openly gay professional footballer, despite the huge success of members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community in a wide variety of fields including politics, business and the media; recognises the need to make the national game accessible and welcoming to the LGBT community; is concerned by the endemic lack of action on this issue by the footballing authorities highlighted by FIFA's decision to award the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to Russia and Qatar respectively, two countries with appalling records on LGBT rights; and calls on the Government to ensure that the national game, from grassroots level right up to the professional game, and from the boardroom to the terraces, is free from any kind of discrimination against the LGBT community.","date":"2011-01-27","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42323","proposer":"10780","edm":"1304","session":"2010-12","title":"Cup Football In The United Kingdom","text":"That this House notes the continuing decline in interest over a number of years in the various cup competitions in association football throughout the UK; further notes the recent poor attendances at cup games in both England and Scotland; is concerned at the increasing domination of football generally by a small number of clubs with significant financial backing; and calls for consideration to be given to a radical review by clubs in each of the four home countries in conjunction with UEFA, with a view to considering a UK-wide cup competition held on an annual basis with a place in the Champions League and a place in the Europa League for the finalists, to reignite interest in cup football as well as helping to develop finances to a range of clubs in addition to the glamourous elite that dominate the UK's national game.","date":"2011-01-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42319","proposer":"10505","edm":"1300","session":"2010-12","title":"Nat Lofthouse","text":"That this House notes with sadness the passing of former footballer Nat Lofthouse at the age of 85; remembers him as a true legend of the game and a sporting icon; believes that he did as much as anyone to put Bolton Wanderers and the North West on the footballing map of the world; further remembers the two goals he scored to win the FA Cup for Bolton in 1958, which was the last time they won the Cup; recalls that he was also an outstanding goalscorer for his country, scoring 30 goals in 33 appearances, which remains one of the best scoring rates in English international footballing history; further remembers that he was a one-club player and remained closely connected with Bolton Wanderers for over 50 years after he stopped playing; further recalls with affection that, even as a player, he often travelled to matches on the bus and held a part-time job as a paint salesman even when at the peak of his career; further remembers Nat as a gentleman; and believes that he was truly worthy of his nickname, The Lion of Vienna.","date":"2011-01-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42297","proposer":"10141","edm":"1280","session":"2010-12","title":"Death Of Nat Lofthouse Obe","text":"That this House is saddened by the news of the death of Nat Lofthouse OBE, the Lion of Vienna, Bolton Wanderers and England footballer; recognises the valuable contribution that Nat Lofthouse made to football, providing years of entertainment and enjoyment for millions of fans; notes that Nat dedicated his career to one club, Bolton Wanderers, from the age of 14 years until his retirement from playing in 1960; further recognises his 505 first-class appearances for Wanderers and his 285 goals; sends sincere condolences to his family and fans; and pays tribute to this outstanding sportsman.","date":"2011-01-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42303","proposer":"24743","edm":"1286","session":"2010-12","title":"Tax Liability Of Footballers","text":"That this House expresses deep concern at reports that 55 footballers in the United Kingdom are exploiting tax loopholes to avoid paying the appropriate level of tax on their earnings; notes that estimates of annual UK tax avoidance and evasion range from 42 billion from HM Revenue and Customs to 130 billion from the PCS union; believes that tax avoidance has a negative impact on the community by creating a lack of available funds for better community services and an increased tax burden for those who are paying their way legitimately; further notes that these footballers are heroes to many but are paid salaries and have additional earnings which are outside the realms of imagination for the overwhelming majority of their devoted fans and are disappointed that oft-expressed concern for fans is not replicated by their actions; expresses further concern that, according to a recent Christian Aid report, 25 UK football clubs are owned offshore; and calls on the UK Government to block this and other tax loopholes which are exploited by mega-rich individuals and companies which are against the principles of fair play and tax justice and to support non-profit football supporters groups in their aims to ensure community ownership of football clubs and financial transparency in the football business world.","date":"2011-01-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42237","proposer":"13934","edm":"1224","session":"2010-12","title":"Sachin Tendulkar's 50 Test Match Centuries","text":"That this House congratulates 37 year old Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar on becoming the first person ever to score 50 test match centuries; notes that this incredible achievement came on Sunday 19 December 2010 during the first test between India and South Africa at the aptly named Centurion cricket ground in South Africa; further notes that this was Sachin Tendulkar's 175th test match for India and the 107 runs he scored were his seventh test century of 2010; and agrees with Indian cricket coach Gary Kirsten, who said after Sachin Tendulkar's achievement that it was little wonder that he has been so successful over so many years because he treats every cricketing day with humility and respect and works as hard as he can on his game, that it is a great lesson for young cricketers and that he is a professor in batting.","date":"2010-12-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42219","proposer":"11093","edm":"1206","session":"2010-12","title":"Athletic Legacy For The Olympic Stadium","text":"That this House recognises that the new London 2012 Olympic Stadium will be the best athletics stadium in the world; believes the future of the Olympic Stadium after 2012 must include an international athletics track; notes that other than the Olympic Stadium there are no athletics stadia in England with the permanent facilities and capacity required to host the 2017 World Athletics Championship; further notes that hosting a world athletics championship would have a positive economic impact of 102.6 million; therefore supports UK Athletics' bid to turn the Olympic Stadium into a 60,000-capacity arena for athletics, football, concerts and community; and welcomes support for that bid from Olympians Kelly Holmes, Daley Thompson, Alan Wells, Steve Cram, Steve Backley, Roger Black, Jamie Baulch, Lynn Davies, Brendan Foster, Katherine Merry, David Moorcroft, Alan Pascoe, Wendy Sly, Ian Stewart and the Paralympian Tanni Grey-Thompson.","date":"2010-12-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42145","proposer":"10231","edm":"1137","session":"2010-12","title":"England's Bid To Host The World Cup","text":"That this House believes that it would be a good idea if all those individuals and organisations involved in the failed World Cup bid showed a little humility and good grace instead of continually whingeing and moaning about the unfairness of FIFA and the bidding process; recalls that no allegations of unfairness were levelled by the British bid team or media against the International Olympic Committee, which is a similar self-appointed undemocraticorganisation, when they awarded the 2012 Olympic Games to London; remembers that the English football authorities were themselves accused of double-dealing and breaking promises by members of UEFA when they attempted a rival bid against Germany for the 2006 World Cup; notes that the English football authorities and the Premier League are only too willing to sanction takeovers of English clubs by billionaire Russian oligarchs and Arab sheikhs and yet are condescendingly dismissive of Russia and Qatar's abilities to host football World Cups; and, while regretting that England was able only to accumulate two votes out of 22, congratulates Russia and Qatar on their success in bringing World Cup football to two parts of the world which have never hosted the World Cup before.","date":"2010-12-06","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42132","proposer":"10009","edm":"1124","session":"2010-12","title":"England World Cup Bid","text":"That this House expresses its deep disappointment that football will not be coming home to where it rightly belongs in 2018; further congratulates the England bid team on their magnificent efforts to try to persuade FIFA of our case; and regrets that it fell on deaf ears.","date":"2010-12-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42083","proposer":"10428","edm":"1092","session":"2010-12","title":"Swimming And The Healthy Weight, Healthy Lives Strategy","text":"That this House is aware that threemillion people in the UK swim every week, an experience which helps, amongst others, people with disabilities, and those recovering from injury, improves health and combats obesity; recognises that swimming clubs and connected social groups add significantly to community cohesion through efforts to integrate those in different socio-economic conditions, families, religions and age groups; notes that having the ability to swim is a real life skill which regularly saves the lives of those practising it; further notes statistics which show that, nevertheless on average 400 people in Britain drown every year, and that it is the third most common cause of accidental death amongst children; and calls on the Government at this time of financial restraint to support the cross departmental strategy on Healthy Weight, Healthy Lives, in order to ensure increasing ratio of participation in swimming, through delivering its health and safety agenda at local level.","date":"2010-11-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42029","proposer":"10780","edm":"1040","session":"2010-12","title":"Graham Mcdowell, Champion Golfer","text":"That this House notes the tremendous achievements of Northern Ireland golfer Graham McDowell, who in the current year has won the US Open Championship as well as being the golfer to help win the Ryder Cup for Europe even though he was under the most extreme pressure possible in that on his shoulders rested the entire European team's efforts; further notes that these victories mark him out as an outstanding sportsman; and acknowledges that many other sportsmen and women will be considered as candidates for the BBC Sports Personality of the year but believes that Graham McDowell deserves the accolade given his performances on the world stage.","date":"2010-11-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42007","proposer":"10096","edm":"1018","session":"2010-12","title":"Mumbles Rangers Boys And Girls Club","text":"That this House congratulates the Mumbles Rangers Boys and Girls Club in Gower on celebrating the 60th anniversary of its foundation by the legendary Billy Johns; notes how the club has gone from strength to strength over the last six decades, so that it now fields 21 boys' football teams as well as four girls' teams; and wishes Mumbles Rangers continued success in the future.","date":"2010-11-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"42012","proposer":"10505","edm":"1023","session":"2010-12","title":"A. P. Mccoy And BBC Sports Personality Of The Year","text":"That this House believes that A. P. (Tony) McCoy is a very strong and worthy contender to receive the 2010 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award; further believes that this accolade is long due to him in particular recognition of his unsurpassed achievements within the sport, including the riding of over 3,000 winners; further believes that this achievement was further enhanced by his riding of the 2010 Grand National winner and notes his wider contribution to horse racing; recognises that his achievements have been accomplished in a dangerous sport, and that he himself has sustained many injuries in his pursuit of excellence; notes his modest and genial approach; and further believes that there could not be a more deserving recipient of this award.","date":"2010-11-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41995","proposer":"24919","edm":"1006","session":"2010-12","title":"School Sports Partnerships","text":"That this House recognises that the School Sports Partnership (SSP) has in recent years successfully transformed the quantity and quality of physical education within and beyond the school day, which also helps tackle child obesity; further recognises that the SSP has provided millions of hours of coaching, creating thousands of links between schools and clubs, introduced over a million more young people to competitive sport and significantly lifted the level of inter-school and intra-school competition; believes that other merits of the SSP include organising mentors and sustaining the primary school Playground Buddies scheme to prevent bullying and building leadership qualities in those who do notwant to partake in sport but who want to volunteer to promote events and activity in others; strongly deplores the Government's devastating decision to end all direct funding, worth 162 million a year, for the SSP; fears that ending the ring-fencing of funds will encourage hard-pressed schools to divert such monies; regrets removing the need for schools to plan and implement their part of the five hour sport offer as well as collect pupil information for an annual survey; further believes that plans for an annual Olympic-style school sport competition will reduce the number of events and exclude all but the most avid sports people; shares widespread concerns that the overall impact will endanger the prospect of a lasting Olympic legacy; urges schools to maintain school sports and their inclusive nature; and calls on the Government to reconsider this decision.","date":"2010-11-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41988","proposer":"24819","edm":"999","session":"2010-12","title":"Campaign For A Fair British Horserace Betting Levy","text":"That this House notes the importance of the British horseracing industry in contributing to the economy and job creation; praises the work of the British Horseracing Authority and Racing United in campaigning for a fair British horserace betting levy; acknowledges that the Horserace Betting Levy raises millions of pounds for local racecourses; is concerned that the amount paid to racecourses from the Horserace Betting Levy has fallen by a third in two years; and calls on the Horserace Betting Levy Board and the Government to close loopholes in the horserace betting levy to ensure local racecourses receive the funding they need.","date":"2010-11-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41970","proposer":"11455","edm":"981","session":"2010-12","title":"Bristol City Football Club And The Fifa World Cup 2018","text":"That this House wholeheartedly supports England's bid tohost the 2018 FIFA Football World Cup; recognises the need to have a range of geographically-widespread, high-quality stadia to attract the bid; supports the A City United group, which is campaigning for the construction of a stadium in Ashton Vale, Bristol suitable for hosting World Cup matches;welcomes the proposed designation of a wetlands and wildlife area on the Ashton Vale site; and calls on the Government to support Bristol City Football Club's new stadium as part of the FIFA World Cup bid.","date":"2010-11-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41943","proposer":"10780","edm":"954","session":"2010-12","title":"Name Of UK Olympics Team","text":"That this House notes the excellent work being doneacross the UK by thousands of volunteers in preparation for the London 2012 Olympic Games; further notes the continuing issue of the name of the team from this country which has the title of the Great Britain and Northern Ireland team; recognises that this is frequently shortened to Team GB; welcomes the fact that the Mayor of London has recently concurred with the sensible consensus which is emerging that the team should be more succinctly re-named as Team UK; and expresses the hope that this will be acted on by the relevant sporting authorities in time for the Olympic celebrations.","date":"2010-11-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41920","proposer":"11974","edm":"933","session":"2010-12","title":"Dundee Fc Point Deduction","text":"That this House supports Dundee Football Club during its time of financial difficulty; hopes that the Scottish Football League may reconsider its decision to deduct 25 points from the team; recognises that the financial problems faced by Dundee FC are similar to problems faced by companies across Scotland and the UK, and punishments such as these are only likely to cause further harm; and asks the UK Government and the Scottish Executive to look sympathetically on historic community organisations such as 117 year old Dundee FC.","date":"2010-11-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41909","proposer":"10428","edm":"922","session":"2010-12","title":"British Racing Schools Progamme-Led Apprenticeships","text":"That this House is aware that under proposals currently being considered by Ministers, programme-led apprenticeships, the delivery model currently used for young people entering the UK racing industry, will cease in April 2011, as it is the Government's considered view that anyone on an apprenticeship should be employed except where, due to practical and\/or health and safety reasons, direct entry into employment at the outset of an apprenticeship is not possible; reminds those responsible for such considerations that riding and racing thoroughbred racehorses carries risks and therefore young people entering this industry should be properly trained and prepared in controlled environments with the expertise and resources necessary on hand to achieve this as they currently are by the tworegistered British racing schools; and calls on the Government to recognise that pre-apprenticeshiptraining is therefore not only common sense but essential in achieving such provision in the UK's racing, breeding and equestrian industries.","date":"2010-10-28","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41878","proposer":"10884","edm":"895","session":"2010-12","title":"Footballers' Battalions","text":"That this House congratulates the Football League and its clubs on their efforts to remember those players and fans who served their country so proudly from within the Footballers' Battalions during the First World War; recognises the efforts of fans at league clubs who raised significant funds for a memorial to be erected on a site close to where both Battalions suffered grievous losses on the Somme; and notes that the memorial, the first of its type remembering the Footballers' Battalions, is an apt reminder of the sacrifices made during the Great War and of how footballers and fans came together to contest the toughest match of their lives.","date":"2010-10-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41874","proposer":"10575","edm":"893","session":"2010-12","title":"Olympic Truce","text":"That this House recognises that the purpose of the ancient Olympic Games, which ran for 1,200 years, was the promotion of peace and reconciliation through the observance of the Olympic Truce; congratulates Lord Bates for drawing attention to the issue of the Truce in a House of Lords debate on 11 October 2010; notes that a resolution declaring the period of Olympic Truce for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be proposed to the United Nations General Assembly by the Government during 2011; welcomes the fact that the Truce requests that during the period of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games all Member States take the initiative to abide by the Truce, individually and collectively; believes that the Truce would in no way compromise national security and indeed may enhance it; therefore considers the Truce to be an important tool of politics and diplomacy which affords a unique opportunity to provide humanitarian aid to war-torn areas, to commence dialogue in place of conflict consistent with the Government's renewed emphasis on conflict prevention and provides a significant opportunity domestically to advance renewed community spirit consistent with the aims of the Big Society; and therefore urges the Government to provide leadership to ensure that the Truce accompanying the London 2012 Games is taken seriously and that opportunities for peace and reconciliation, individually and collectively, at home and abroad, are realised in order to provide a lasting legacy on which future Games can build.","date":"2010-10-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41821","proposer":"13934","edm":"842","session":"2010-12","title":"Commonwealth Games 2010 New Delhi","text":"That this House congratulates India on hosting a successful Commonwealth Games in New Delhi; notes that despite initial concerns and negative media reports, the Games were held without any security incidents, that crowds grew as the Games progressed, that no health and safety incidents occurred during the Games and that those who participated in and attended the Games had a very positive experience; and further notes that the success of the Games has provided the sporting world and India with a legacy of first-class sporting venues and a new enthusiasm for athletics and new sports among the Indian people.","date":"2010-10-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41825","proposer":"24794","edm":"846","session":"2010-12","title":"Abf Soldiers Charity And Challenge 66","text":"That this House applauds the attempts by Mr Andy McMenemy to run 66 marathons in 66 days in each of the 66 official cities of the UK; notes the support he has given to the ABF Soldiers Charity; recognises the problems of readjustment and the difficulties UK forces face when returning home from the front line; recognises also the important work that the ABF Soldiers Charity continues to do in providing assistance to those returned forces; and congratulates the ABF Soldiers Charity on its 66 years of excellent work.","date":"2010-10-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41800","proposer":"10329","edm":"833","session":"2010-12","title":"Football Needs Campaign","text":"That this House welcomes the Football Association's Football Needs campaign and its target to recruit 50,000 newly-qualified coaches by the end of 2011 and 8,000 new referees by 2012; and calls on everyone from mothers and fathers to ex-players and armchair football fans and their families throughout England to use their passion and interest for the game to become coaches and referees and to play their role in developing the next generation of male and female English footballers.","date":"2010-10-14","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41803","proposer":"11093","edm":"836","session":"2010-12","title":"Paralympics","text":"That this House welcomes the UK's investment in theLondon 2012 Paralympics; notes, however, that some countries do not have any access to modern technological sports aids; further notes that wheelchair athletes from Mongolia have reached the Olympic standard using hospital rather then sports wheelchairs; and calls on the Government and the Olympic authorities to make the Paralympics a fair and even competition.","date":"2010-10-14","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41778","proposer":"24935","edm":"812","session":"2010-12","title":"Football Licensing Authority","text":"That this House deplores any proposal to abolish or reduce the powers of the Football Licensing Authority; notes that the Authority was established in the aftermath of the Hillsborough Stadium disaster; and calls on the Government to reconsider urgently any such proposal.","date":"2010-10-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41759","proposer":"10780","edm":"793","session":"2010-12","title":"Recognition Of Athletes From Northern Ireland","text":"That this House recognises the achievements by athletes from Northern Ireland in recent months; acknowledges the superb golf played in difficult circumstances by the European team in the Ryder Cup;notes that for a country the size of Northern Ireland to have two of the finest golfers in the world in Graham McDowell and Rory McIlroy, who played such an instrumental part in winning the trophy alongside Graham McDowell's winning of the US Open is remarkable, together with the Ulster rugby team and the Northern Ireland football team, both of whom are performing at a very high level, demonstrates the healthy state of sport in Northern Ireland; andexpresses the hope that there will be recognition particularly by the sporting media in the rest of the United Kingdom of these outstanding performances by athletes from a country that has a population approximately one-30th that of England.","date":"2010-10-11","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41675","proposer":"11333","edm":"715","session":"2010-12","title":"Scotland's Commonwealth Games Team","text":"That this House wishes the Scottish Commonwealth Games team, recently announced, the best of luck; expresses the House's full support for the team; considers the games in Delhi in October 2010 will provide an excellent platform to promote sport in Scotland; acknowledges that the athletes have all been chosen for their hard work and dedication to their sports; hopes that a team full of such potential can inspire more people to take up sport in Scotland; and notes the Games will pave the way for the event taking place in Glasgow in 2014.","date":"2010-09-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41641","proposer":"24852","edm":"681","session":"2010-12","title":"Parliament To Parliament Cyclists","text":"That this House congratulates the Parliament to Parliament cyclists welcomed to Westminster by their colleagues on 6 September 2010 who had cycled from Edinburgh to Westminster in four days; and furthermore congratulates them for completing the tour and raising money for the Soldiers, Sailors,Airmen and Families' Association.","date":"2010-09-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41622","proposer":"11672","edm":"663","session":"2010-12","title":"Co-Operative Ownership Of Football Clubs","text":"That this House commends the commitment within the Government's Coalition Agreement to encourage the reform of football governance rules towards the co-operative ownership of football clubs by supporters; is disappointed that so many rich owners have bought clubs despite fans' protests and continued to run them against the wishes of their fans, resulting in ticket price hikes and, in some cases, the accumulation of huge debts; recognises that facilitating co-operative ownership would protect the true spirit of football by increasing the accountability of clubs to their fans and the communities they represent; and calls for the timely enactment of concrete reforms in this regard.","date":"2010-09-06","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41566","proposer":"24826","edm":"609","session":"2010-12","title":"National Football Centre, Rangemore, Staffordshire","text":"That this House recognises the important role the England football team plays as a symbol of unity and pride across the nation; commiserates with the fans following England's disappointing early exit from the 2010 World Cup; further recognises the importance of proper training facilities to any prospect of future success; supports the development of the new St George's Park National Football Centre at Rangemore; and calls on the Football Association urgently to finalise its plans and to make progress on the project as soon as possible.","date":"2010-07-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41551","proposer":"24949","edm":"594","session":"2010-12","title":"Women's Rugby World Cup 2010","text":"That this House eagerly anticipates the forthcoming Women's Rugby World Cup to be held in London in August and September 2010; wishes England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland every success in the competition; hopes that fans from across the United Kingdom and Ireland will support the teams; and believes that this isa great opportunity to showcase women's rugby and to provide a lasting legacy for the game worldwide.","date":"2010-07-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41564","proposer":"11427","edm":"607","session":"2010-12","title":"Show Racism The Red Card Charity","text":"That this House recognises the excellent work of the anti-racist charityShow Racism the Red Card which was established in 1996 with the aim of harnessing the high-profile status of professional footballers as anti-racist role models to combat racism through education; notes that hundreds of top footballers and managers take part in its activities which have made racism the exception rather than the rule at football matches in contrast with experience abroad; further notes that the campaign employs 12 former professional footballers throughout England, Scotland and Wales to coach young people using football as a way of engaging young people with anti-racist messages; welcomes the possibility that the campaign could be selected as the Football Association Charity of the year for 2011 and has so far won the support for this of Gordon Taylor and the Professional Footballers' Association, as well as former England Manager Graham Taylor; and wishes them the best in their endeavours.","date":"2010-07-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41535","proposer":"10505","edm":"578","session":"2010-12","title":"Future Of The Tote","text":"That this House is concerned that any decision involving the future of The Tote should, at the very least, encompass the principle of its assets being used to guarantee the future of horse racing in the UK and those who work within it or are dependent upon its activities and should not involve the closure or running down of its headquarters at Wigan.","date":"2010-07-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41538","proposer":"10684","edm":"581","session":"2010-12","title":"Sporting Listed Events And The Ashes","text":"That this House opposes the decision not to include the Ashes in the A-list of free-to-air television; calls on the Government to reverse its decision and instead accept the recommendations of the David Davies Review; further opposes measures which deprives UK audiences from being able to share in the triumphs and tribulations of the national team; and calls on the Government to guarantee the future of cricket by enabling the biggest audience and not the smallest.","date":"2010-07-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41506","proposer":"11707","edm":"549","session":"2010-12","title":"Free Swimming In Manchester","text":"That this House condemns the decision by Labour-led Manchester City Council to reject the Liberal Democrat amendment to Council to protect free swimming for theunder 16s and over 60s through savings from Council propaganda; andnotes that Government funding for free swimming was only intended for a limited period and by rejecting the Liberal Democrat amendment Labour councillors have failed to guarantee free swimming for the under 16s and over 60s.","date":"2010-07-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41499","proposer":"11707","edm":"542","session":"2010-12","title":"Fan-Owned Football Clubs","text":"That this House recognises the many advantages of the ownership structures of football clubs like FC United of Manchester and AFC Wimbledon where supporters have a direct say in the running of their clubs; applauds the community work carried out by such clubs, often in areas that have been neglected by the larger teams in their area; and furtherrecognises that such fan-ownership structures are a welcome change to the greed that is now witnessed at the top levels of English football, where the wishes of loyal supporters are so often ignored.","date":"2010-07-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41505","proposer":"10231","edm":"548","session":"2010-12","title":"Professional Football Clubs And Administration","text":"That this House notes that many professional football clubs are in severe financial difficulties; but believes it is unfair and inequitable for the professional football authorities to insist that all football creditors of clubs which go into administration, have to be paid in full before allowing clubs to participate in their leagues, while other creditors, many of whom are small businesses, are likely to receive only a small proportion of monies owed to them.","date":"2010-07-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41430","proposer":"11672","edm":"477","session":"2010-12","title":"10th Otley Walking Festival","text":"That this House celebrates the 10th Otley Walking Festival, held from 26 June to 4 July 2010, as an important social and cultural event that emphasises and reinforces the importance of exercise and nature for community and individual well-being; applauds the 26 June launch of the Six Dales Trail, a 39 mile course with a range of treks and routes for all levels of walkers, as a community asset that enables all local residents to enjoy the benefits of exercise in the outdoors; and wishes the Otley Walking Festival many more decades of success promoting walking and cultivating appreciation for our natural environment.","date":"2010-07-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41445","proposer":"11592","edm":"492","session":"2010-12","title":"Prohibition Of Ticket Touting","text":"That this House believes that tickets for major sporting and cultural events should be available to all customers at face value with all profits generated by ticket sales being returned to the organisations, athletes, artists and venues involved in staging them; and therefore supports the introduction of legislative proposals similar to those introduced for the sale of Olympic tickets which would prohibit the resale of tickets at prices greatly above face value denying unscrupulous vendors the chance to make themselves a small fortune at the expense of genuine fans, as well as encouraging the ongoing development of fan to fan ticket exchange sites.","date":"2010-07-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41415","proposer":"10001","edm":"463","session":"2010-12","title":"Apprentices On The Olympic Site","text":"That this House recognises that opportunities to train local youngsters on the Olympic site are not being fully utilised; notes that just four apprentices on the Olympic site hail from Hackney; further notes that all five Olympic boroughs have high levels of unemployment, particularly among young people; believes that further prioritisation by officials is needed in order to leave a true legacy for host boroughs; and calls on the Government to set targets to encourage recruitment of unemployed youngsters locally between now and 2012.","date":"2010-07-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41336","proposer":"10203","edm":"396","session":"2010-12","title":"Welsh Baseball","text":"That this House congratulates the Welsh and English Baseball chairmen Ken Gough and John Jervis on the success of the 85th annual international match between the two countries played in Newport on 3 July 2010; celebrates the welcome revival of participation in the distinctive code of Welsh baseball which has been played in Newport, Liverpool and Cardiff by hundreds of teams since the nineteenth century; welcomes the new developments in women's and youth baseball in all three cities; and looks forward to continuing progress in this spectator-friendly sport of high skill and athleticism.","date":"2010-07-05","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41315","proposer":"10009","edm":"375","session":"2010-12","title":"England Cricket Team","text":"That this House congratulates the English cricket team on their convincing victory over Australia in the one-day series; and hopes that they will repeat their success in the Ashes series this winter.","date":"2010-07-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41314","proposer":"24784","edm":"374","session":"2010-12","title":"Reform Of Voting Rights In The Football Association","text":"That this House believes that after spending some \u00a350 million on 10 years of failed managers, failed contracts, and failed pay-outs, it is time for a democratic revolution in the Football Association (FA); concludes that there should be a subscription system for England fans to exercise voting rights in the FA; further concludes that it would be in the national interest for England fans to vote for the FA Board and Chairman, and to fire them if they do a bad job; agrees that grassroots football clubs should have a greater say over how local money is spent on football; and therefore calls on the Coalition Government to recognise the cultural importance of football to England, and to change the law so that the FA is truly accountable to England fans.","date":"2010-06-30","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41286","proposer":"24743","edm":"346","session":"2010-12","title":"Ffos Las Racecourse","text":"That this House congratulates Ffos Las Racecourse, Carwe, Carmarthenshire, on its first anniversary, with more than 70,000 race goers attending 19 meetings, watching 127 races featuring more than 1,100 horses; congratulates Ffos Las on winning various awards in its first year, including being selected Best Newcomer by betting magazine Betview, the Institution for Civil Engineers Wales chairman's award for sustainability, the Racegoers' Club award for best small racecourse in the south west and for its catering; and recognises the important role that Ffos Las plays in stimulating the local economy, attracting people to south west Wales and strengthening links between Wales and Ireland, as well as raising the profile of Wales in the horseracing world and promoting the delights of Carmarthenshire.","date":"2010-06-29","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41266","proposer":"24874","edm":"327","session":"2010-12","title":"Goal-Line Technology","text":"That this House notes that the use of technology has improved confidence in the results of many high-profile sporting events; considers that goal-line technology would not necessarily be detrimental to the fluidity of football matches, but would considerably enhance fairness in the game; and calls on FIFA to reconsider the use of goal-line technology.","date":"2010-06-28","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41268","proposer":"24784","edm":"329","session":"2010-12","title":"Football Association And England Football Team","text":"That this House calls for the Football Association (FA) board to resign now; recognises that England has some brilliant players, but notes that Sven-G\u00f6ran Eriksson, Steve McClaren and Fabio Capello have all produced nothing but failure; notes that all have been given hugely expensive contracts with little result; further notes that, amazingly, Capello's contract was renewed just a few weeks ago, meaning that the FA will have to shell out even more cash if, as expected, he is sacked; believes that there is no reason for the England football team to fail in this way; therefore concludes that for years England has punched well below its weight, because of the ineffective management of the Football Association; and calls for a footballing revolution at FA HQ, with the fans having much more input into decision-making.","date":"2010-06-28","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41269","proposer":"12004","edm":"330","session":"2010-12","title":"Television Replays And Football Matches","text":"That this House notes that the failure of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) to introduce the use of modern technologies, including television replays as the best set of eyes available to help inform decisions of officials on the football pitch, denies referees of the best possible means of doing their job and leads to demonstrably unjust decisions and outcomes of matches and leaves the referee the least informed person regarding what is happening on the football pitch; and calls on FIFA to permit the use of modern technology on the football field immediately.","date":"2010-06-28","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41273","proposer":"10231","edm":"334","session":"2010-12","title":"Television Money And The English Premier Football League","text":"That this House recognises that the vast sums of television money poured into the English Premier League, including \u00a32.7 billion during the current three-year contract, equivalent to 1.66 per cent. of the country's current financial deficit, have enriched beyond belief a small number of Premier football clubs, their players, agents and global owners but is doing very little to help grass roots football or to develop potential English players of the future; believes, therefore, that there is a compelling argument for a windfall tax on television monies coming into football similar to the windfall tax that was levied on the privatised utilities after 1997; and further believes that the proceeds of such a tax should be ring-fenced, administered by the Football Foundation and used to support the development of grass roots football in the UK and the retention and improvement of existing football pitches and changing facilities owned by sports clubs and local authorities which are going to be under even more threat by the squeeze on public expenditure.","date":"2010-06-28","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41274","proposer":"10009","edm":"335","session":"2010-12","title":"English Football And The World Cup Finals","text":"That this House expresses its great disappointment at England's pathetic exit from the World Cup finals; believes that they let this country and their supporters down; further believes that an urgent inquiry should be held into the state of our national game; and firmly believes that many Premier League players are grossly overpaid and under-perform.","date":"2010-06-28","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41259","proposer":"10298","edm":"324","session":"2010-12","title":"John Isner And Nicolas Mahut","text":"That this House applauds, salutes and recognises the two players who have given the world the most titanic game in tennis history, which started on Court 18 at the 2010 Wimbledon Championships on 22 June and only finished 11 hours and five minutes playing time later after a full day's play on 23 June and further play on 24 June; records the House's collective amazement at a match which broke so many records but also gave so much pleasure and excitement at the same time as the players showed such good humour, mutual respect, skill, energy and endurance; and congratulates John Isner and Nicolas Mahut on playing themselves so proudly into the record books, with the final result being a win for the younger man by the phenomenal score of 6-4, 3-6, 6-7, 7-6 and 70-68.","date":"2010-06-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41211","proposer":"10780","edm":"279","session":"2010-12","title":"Graeme Mcdowell And The Us Open","text":"That this House notes the outstanding achievement of Northern Ireland golfer Graeme McDowell in winning the United States Open, even among the intense competition offered by the world's elite players; and recognises the Portrush-based man's progress towards the top of the golfing world, proving that Northern Ireland now boasts three of the best golfers in the world in Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke and the current US Open winner Graeme McDowell.","date":"2010-06-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41120","proposer":"24935","edm":"197","session":"2010-12","title":"Liverpool Football Club","text":"That this House expresses its dismay at the failure of the American owners of Liverpool Football Club to exercise responsible stewardship of the club; notes the departure of the outgoing manager Rafael Benitez; regrets the failure to fulfil promises of a new stadium; supports consultation and engagement with supporters' groups; and looks to an early change of ownership and a positive strategy to take the club forward.","date":"2010-06-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41093","proposer":"24910","edm":"170","session":"2010-12","title":"Widening Of Football Participation In Sussex","text":"That this House welcomes the increase in participation in football in Sussex; notes that there are now 105 female youth football teams and 42 female adult teams in Sussex; further notes that since 2008 the number of male disability teams in Sussex has increased from 14 to 20, and the Sussex area has seen a significant growth in the number of male youth teams, which have increased from 902 to 955 since 2008, alongside 588 mini soccer teams; congratulates all those involved in widening participation in football; and looks forward to participation by under-represented groups increasing further.","date":"2010-06-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41099","proposer":"10258","edm":"176","session":"2010-12","title":"Procter And Gamble And Sponsorship Of London 2012 Olympics","text":"That this House notes media reports of talks between the International Olympic Committee and Procter and Gamble regarding sponsorship of the London 2012 Olympics; recognises that Procter and Gamble continue to use animals in painful and lethal toxicity tests for the sake of cosmetics and cleaning brands such as Herbal Essences, Olay, Pantene, Head and Shoulders, Fairy and Ariel; further notes that the UK, the host country for the 2012 Games, banned such animal testing for cosmetics on the grounds of unnecessary cruelty back in 1998 and plans to ban animal testing of cleaning products; considers that testing cosmetics on animals also puts Procter and Gamble in opposition to the fundamental principles of Olympism to uphold universal fundamental ethical principles and promote a peaceful society; therefore calls on the Government to recognise that Procter and Gamble's unethical animal testing is in conflict with the values of the United Kingdom and the Olympic movement; and asks the Department for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport to express its opposition to Procter and Gamble's proposed sponsorship of London 2012 and work to prevent any such sponsorship deal.","date":"2010-06-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41100","proposer":"10258","edm":"177","session":"2010-12","title":"Racehorse Fatalities In The United Kingdom","text":"That this House is alarmed by evidence suggesting that many healthy but unprofitable thoroughbreds are slaughtered in British abattoirs or shot in racing yards every year; notes that more than 170 horses die or are destroyed due to racecourse injuries annually; calls on the Government to take steps to ensure that a full audit of racehorse production, death and injury is produced and put into the public domain, and that this initiative should include the speedy online publication of the name of each horse killed and details of where and how the fatality occurred; and urges the Government to act decisively to remedy the problems of racehorse over-production.","date":"2010-06-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41110","proposer":"24963","edm":"187","session":"2010-12","title":"Walthamstow Stadium","text":"That this House welcomes efforts to reopen historic Walthamstow Greyhound Stadium in East London; urges site owners London and Quadrant to not leave the site derelict and instead to enter meaningful discussions with the S.O.S. organisation and commercial operators who have vigorously campaigned to restore this, the UK's most prestigious track; salutes also the hard work so far undertaken by the myriad of representative groups in the sport to make this a reality; and calls on the Mayor of London to fully support their hard work and commitment.","date":"2010-06-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41080","proposer":"24743","edm":"161","session":"2010-12","title":"Welsh International 20-20 And One Day Cricket Team","text":"That this House congratulates the English national cricket team for winning the 20-20 World Cup in the West Indies; recognises Wales' proud cricketing tradition; notes that Ireland and Afghanistan qualified for the recent 20-20 World Cup and that Scotland and Holland have qualified for recent One Day World Cup competitions; believes a Welsh national cricket team could be set up to compete at both competitions without endangering Glamorgan's status as a First Class County or Sophia Gardens, Cardiff as a Test venue; and looks forward to a Welsh national cricket team competing at future cricket world cups to provide the English team with stiffer competition.","date":"2010-06-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41041","proposer":"10521","edm":"125","session":"2010-12","title":"European Sporting And Cultural Relations With Israel","text":"That this House considers that since Israel is not in Europe then it is not appropriate that it competes in European sporting and cultural events; and therefore requests the Government to encourage organisers of events for European countries to exclude Israel.","date":"2010-06-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"41050","proposer":"11672","edm":"134","session":"2010-12","title":"World 24 Hour Running Championships","text":"That this House congratulates the British 24 Hour Running Team on achieving a bronze medal in the European grouping within the 24 Hour World Running Championships; recognises the extreme mental and physical effort and discipline required to compete in ultra running and 24 hour running; is aware that this year's competition has been recognised as one of the most high quality ever assembled in terms of competitors; and pays particular respect to Chris Carver, who broke his personal 100 mile record, completing the distance in an extremely impressive 15 hours and 22 minutes.","date":"2010-06-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40995","proposer":"10256","edm":"80","session":"2010-12","title":"10th Anniversary Of The Murders Of Chris Loftus And Kevin Speight","text":"That this House notes that 5 April 2010 marks the 10th anniversary of the murder of Leeds United fans Chris Loftus and Kevin Speight in Istanbul; further notes that the two fans were murdered while attending a football match between Leeds and Galatasaray and that they were not involved in any violence or disorder at the time; regrets that to date nobody has been imprisoned for these crimes; requests the Turkish authorities to ensure that the appeals of those convicted and still free should be expedited; regrets that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has not so far been successful in helping the families of the murdered men; calls on the Government to mark the 10th anniversary of the murders by intensifying pressure on the Turkish authorities to conclude the appeals; and believes that the families of the murdered men will have no rest until justice is seen to be done.","date":"2010-05-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40934","proposer":"11974","edm":"20","session":"2010-12","title":"Dundee United Scottish Cup Winners","text":"That this House congratulates Dundee United Football Club on its Scottish Cup Victory at Hampden Park on 15 May 2010; recognises the importance of the victory for the City of Dundee and local football; further congratulates the Dundee United and Ross County fans on what was a festival of football; and further recognises that the final marked the 125th Scottish Cup competition, the oldest football tournament in the world.","date":"2010-05-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40992","proposer":"10298","edm":"78","session":"2010-12","title":"Millwall And League One Play-Off Final","text":"That this House congratulates Millwall FC, pride of South London, on its successful season in League One and its roaring finish; salutes its play off semi-final victory over Huddersfield; and wishes the chairman, board, manager Kenny Jackett, captain Paul Robinson, record goal scorer Neil Harris and all the squad, staff and fans all the very best in the League One play-off final against Swindon on Saturday 29 May.","date":"2010-05-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40903","proposer":"10465","edm":"1241","session":"2009-10","title":"Code Of Practice For The Welfare Of Gamebirds","text":"That this House notes the Code of Practice for the Welfare of Gamebirds Reared for Sporting Purposes as laid before the House on 15 March 2010; believes that the guidelines in the Code are at variance with the three options which formed part of the consultation on the draft Code prior to its submission to the House; further believes that this incomprehensible and unilateral change to the Code invalidates the consultation process and significantly undermines the quality of the Code particularly in regard to guidelines on cages; and calls on the Government to withdraw the Code and to reformulate it in line with the feedback from experts and practitioners in the rearing of gamebirds.","date":"2010-04-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40871","proposer":"10256","edm":"1211","session":"2009-10","title":"Tenth Anniversary Of The Murders Of Chris Loftus And Kevin Speight","text":"That this House notes that 5 April 2010 marks the tenth anniversary of the murder of Leeds United fans Chris Loftus and Kevin Speight in Istanbul; further notes that the two fans were murdered while attending a football match between Leeds and Galatasaray and that they were not involved in any violence or disorder at the time; regrets that to date nobody has been imprisoned for these crimes; requests the Turkish authorities to ensure that the appeals of those convicted and still free should be expedited; regrets that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has not so far been successful in helping the families of the murdered men; calls on the Government to mark the tenth anniversary of the murders by intensifying pressure on the Turkish authorities to conclude the appeals; and believes that the families of the murdered men will have no rest until justice is seen to be done.","date":"2010-03-30","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40881","proposer":"11132","edm":"1221","session":"2009-10","title":"Westbury Swimming Pool","text":"That this House notes Westbury's unique and historic swimming pool which has been in service since 1888 having been constructed in 1887 by William Henry Laverton for 5,000; further notes the contribution it makes to fitness and wellbeing in Westbury and the surrounding area; further notes the remedial benefits of its relatively warm water for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease; observes that the pool is the home of Westbury's thriving amateur swimming club; further notes that Dr Ian Gordon and Mr Simon Inglis in their book, Great Lengths, the historic indoor swimming pools of Britain, cite the Westbury pool as a firm candidate for listing; commends the pool's operators for planning to take part in Marie Curie Cancer Care's Swimathon in April 2010; and offers its good wishes for another century of service as a leisure and heritage facility in Westbury.","date":"2010-03-30","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40739","proposer":"10203","edm":"1104","session":"2009-10","title":"Newport County's Promotion","text":"That this House warmly celebrates Newport County AFC's phenomenal 24 point lead at the top of their division which secured their promotion into big time football after 21 years of difficulties and exile; congratulates Dean Holdsworth, the rest of the squad and management and the record number of Amber Army faithful for their brilliant achievement; and looks forward confidently to even greater triumphs in future.","date":"2010-03-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40746","proposer":"10775","edm":"1111","session":"2009-10","title":"Lawrence Tynes","text":"That this House congratulates Greenock's Lawrence Tynes on being the first ever Scottish-born player to be part of a winning Super Bowl team; notes that his kicks secured the opening and closing points scored by the New York Giants against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII; recognises that Lawrence is a role model for young sports people in both the US and the UK; acknowledges his contribution to popularising American Football in Britain, and particularly Scotland, where he played for the Scottish Claymores before returning to the United States; notes the increasing global interest in the NFL and the Super Bowl; commends Tynes' achievements which have helped to further Scottish and US relations; and wishes him many more successful years in the NFL.","date":"2010-03-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40691","proposer":"11489","edm":"1059","session":"2009-10","title":"Borth And Ynyslas Golf Club","text":"That this House congratulates Borth and Ynyslas Golf Club on the occasion of its 125th anniversary; celebrates the contribution the golf club has made to the wider golfing world; notes that the Borth and Ynyslas has good reason to claim the title of oldest golf course in Wales; and commends the officials, staff and members for making the club a jewel in Ceredigion's crown.","date":"2010-03-10","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40704","proposer":"10657","edm":"577A2","session":"2009-10","title":"Construction Of Temporary Olympic Arena","text":"at end add `nevertheless applauds the success in 2005 of the bid to host the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games; recognises the fulfilment of the bid commitment to use existing facilities where possible, to build permanent venues only where there is a sustainable business case for post-Games use, and to use temporary facilities for the remaining venues; welcomes the opportunity to showcase first class facilities in London and across the UK including Cardiff Millennium Stadium, Earls Court, Eton Dorney, ExCeL, Hampden Park Lords, Old Trafford, St James' Park, the O2, Wembley Arena, Wembley Stadium, Weymouth and Portland and Wimbledon; and particularly notes the importance of continued cross-party support for the Games.'.","date":"2010-03-10","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40597","proposer":"10459","edm":"977","session":"2009-10","title":"Ashes Broadcast Revenue And Local Cricket","text":"That this House urges the Government to consider the financial impact that moving the home Ashes test series to terrestrial television will have on county and local cricket clubs up and down the country; recognises that the revenue generated from current broadcast arrangements enables cricket clubs to provide schemes and facilities to the local community; is concerned these would come under threat from reduced income; notes that moving the Ashes to terrestrial television would end the evening highlights show; and calls on the Government to preserve the existing television test arrangements for test cricket for the sustainability of local cricket.","date":"2010-03-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40579","proposer":"10487","edm":"959","session":"2009-10","title":"Vancouver 2010","text":"That this House warmly congratulates Canada on winning gold medals in the men's and women's ice hockey, the blue-riband event of the games and for hosting such a successful winter Olympics.","date":"2010-03-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40582","proposer":"10190","edm":"962","session":"2009-10","title":"Blue Peter Presenter Helen Skelton And Sport Relief","text":"That this House congratulates Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton on her 2,000 mile kayak along the Amazon to raise money for Sport Relief; notes her considerable position as a role model to young people and the magnificent example she sets; further notes the forthcoming verification by Guinness World Records of the two records set by Helen during her effort - longest solo journey by kayak and the longest distance travelled in a kayak in 24 hours by a women; and further notes the work of Sport Relief in raising money to help transform the lives of poor and vulnerable people, both in the UK and all over the world.","date":"2010-03-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40558","proposer":"10218","edm":"939","session":"2009-10","title":"Team Gb 2012","text":"That this House is extremely concerned by recent reports that UK Olympic officials, including those from UK Sport, estimate that more than a third of athletes in Team GB at the 2012 Games are likely to come from fee-paying educational backgrounds; notes that only seven per cent. of the populace attends fee-paying schools; expresses disappointment that the fine aspiration of Team 2012 to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practiced without discrimination of any kind appears to have been dashed; and requests that the Government do everything possible to democratise and widen access to both elite and grassroots sports, in line with the pledges of the Olympic bid.","date":"2010-02-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40504","proposer":"10329","edm":"895","session":"2009-10","title":"50th Anniversary Of The League Cup Competition","text":"That this House congratulates the Football League on the 50th anniversary of the League Cup competition; recognises that no other competition is as effective in spreading football's wealth throughout the professional game in England and Wales; notes the increased interest in this year's competition, including increased attendances; and hopes fans of both Aston Villa and Manchester United enjoy the historic Carling Cup Final at Wembley on 28 February 2010.","date":"2010-02-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40434","proposer":"10372","edm":"834","session":"2009-10","title":"Small Businesses And The London Olympics","text":"That this House recognises the significant business potential of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games; notes that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport estimates that the total value of contracts connected to London 2012 is \u00a36 billion; applauds all efforts to support small businesses across the UK in reaping the benefits of the Olympic and Paralympic Games; and welcomes the pledge by Lloyds Banking Group to make \u00a31 billion of new loans available to those firms across the UK bidding for Olympic and Paralympic-related contracts.","date":"2010-02-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40406","proposer":"10367","edm":"807","session":"2009-10","title":"Governance And Regulation Of Professional Football","text":"That this House recognises that professional football has become a major part of the modern way of life for millions of people; further recognises that its future has ramifications for individuals, communities and the nation; is aware that the state of the premier league and the professional game is causing concern; notes that self-regulation by the football authorities has often meant no regulation; further notes the widespread concern of club supporters, football journalists and financial commentators amongst others that the controlling interests in the clubs do not obviously demonstrate long-term commitment to the clubs involved and to the health of football in general; shares the concern of these groups about the level of debt and financial uncertainty which now affects certain clubs in all divisions; is further aware of the growing trend for public demonstration of unhappiness about these trends at clubs like Liverpool, Portsmouth and the recent Green and Gold campaign at Manchester United; believes the time has come for football fans to be given a tangible stake in the clubs they have helped build and still support; and calls on the Government and the football authorities to create a binding framework which will regulate club debt and those people who are involved in football, guarantee the protection of the consumer with rules for fair trading and protect the wider public interest by putting the supporter at the heart of the national game.","date":"2010-02-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40358","proposer":"10571","edm":"766","session":"2009-10","title":"Sports Clubs And Men's Health","text":"That this House welcomes the development of public health programmes that take advantage of sports stadiums' and sports clubs' position in communities to reach men with health information and services; notes the programmes run by NHS Oldham and the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation; further notes the research and co-ordination provided by the Men's Health Forum and the Federation of Stadium Communities; and calls on the Government to support the further development of such programmes by health providers and sports organisations.","date":"2010-02-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40364","proposer":"10484","edm":"658A1","session":"2009-10","title":"Work Of The Football League Trust","text":"at end add `and also congratulates the Premier League for generously committing the funding for the Football League Trust to deliver these positive outcomes alongside their own Premier League Creating Chances community programme, an example of which is the recently renamed Fulham FC Foundation, which this week announced plans for a ground-breaking programme to address men's health issues in Lambeth.'.","date":"2010-02-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40330","proposer":"10231","edm":"739","session":"2009-10","title":"Professional Football Clubs And Administration","text":"That this House notes that Crystal Palace FC has gone into administration and that many other clubs are in severe financial difficulties; and believes that it is unfair and inequitable for the professional football authorities to insist that all football creditors have to be paid in full before allowing clubs to participate in their leagues while other creditors, many of whom are small businesses, are likely to receive only a small proportion of monies owed to them.","date":"2010-01-27","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40316","proposer":"11522","edm":"726","session":"2009-10","title":"Crystal Palace Fc","text":"That this House wishes Crystal Palace FC the best of good fortune in its efforts to re-emerge from administration.","date":"2010-01-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40284","proposer":"11494","edm":"694","session":"2009-10","title":"Racehorse Breeding In The United Kingdom (No. 2)","text":"That this House accepts that in accordance with good animal welfare practices a small number of thoroughbred horses are humanely put down in Britain each year; notes that the latest research on the lives of thoroughbreds gives no indication that this constitutes a large-scale equine welfare problem; acknowledges that all those involved in horseracing care deeply about the welfare of their animals and that the sport's regulator, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), takes action on a daily basis to minimise injury and death to thoroughbreds; recognises that action taken by the sport has contributed to a rapid drop in the production of racehorses by 16 per cent. in 2009; and calls on the Government to continue to support the BHA as a responsible regulator as it works closely to monitor equine welfare in cooperation with breeders, veterinarians and animal welfare charities such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and World Horse Welfare.","date":"2010-01-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40294","proposer":"10166","edm":"704","session":"2009-10","title":"St George's Park, England's National Football Centre","text":"That this House welcomes the launch of the public consultation into the Football Association's new national football centre at St George's Park near Burton upon Trent; notes that this facility will provide an inspirational centre for future generations of English football players, coaches, referees and administrators, and provide England with much-needed world-class football education and development facility; further notes that it will create over a 100 jobs locally whilst providing a boost for grassroots football and community facilities across the whole region; and looks forward to this facility opening in Staffordshire, the centre of England becoming a hub for the development and growth of the game in England.","date":"2010-01-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40247","proposer":"24691","edm":"658","session":"2009-10","title":"Work Of The Football League Trust","text":"That this House congratulates the Football League Trust for its work at the heart of 72 communities across England and Wales; notes the work of Football League clubs in delivering positive outcomes on major social issues such as health, education, social cohesion and sports participation to more than 1.5 million people in the last 12 months; and recognises that the power of football is being used to improve the local community at Accrington Stanley, AFC Bournemouth, Aldershot Town, Barnet, Barnsley, Blackpool, Bradford City, Brentford, Brighton and Hove Albion, Bristol City, Bristol Rovers, Burton Albion, Bury, Cardiff City, Carlisle United, Charlton Athletic, Cheltenham Town, Chesterfield, Colchester United, Coventry City, Crewe Alexandra, Crystal Palace, Dagenham and Redbridge, Darlington, Derby County, Doncaster Rovers, Exeter City, Gillingham, Grimsby Town, Hartlepool United, Hereford United, Huddersfield Town, Ipswich Town, Leeds United, Leyton Orient, Leicester City, Lincoln City, Macclesfield Town, Middlesbrough, Millwall, Milton Keynes Dons, Morecambe, Newcastle United, Northampton Town, Norwich City, Notts County, Nottingham Forest, Oldham Athletic, Peterborough United, Plymouth Argyle, Port Vale, Preston North End, Queens Park Rangers, Reading, Rochdale, Rotherham United, Scunthorpe United, Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday, Shrewsbury Town, Southampton, Southend United, Stockport County, Swansea City, Swindon Town, Tranmere Rovers, Torquay United, Walsall, Watford, West Bromwich Albion, Wycombe Wanderers and Yeovil Town.","date":"2010-01-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40248","proposer":"10439","edm":"659","session":"2009-10","title":"Mr Bill Mclaren","text":"That this House notes with sadness the death of Bill McLaren, rugby commentator, teacher, citizen of Hawick and family man; understands the importance he placed on education and community life; remembers fondly his vivid use of language; and recognises above all his dedication to rugby, and to its enjoyment by millions, over many decades.","date":"2010-01-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40241","proposer":"10657","edm":"656","session":"2009-10","title":"Bill Mclaren","text":"That this House is saddened by the news that Bill McLaren, the voice of rugby, has passed away; notes that he was an iconic figure in world rugby, in many ways the Richie Benaud of his sport for nearly 50 years; and further notes that he is already much missed.","date":"2010-01-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40193","proposer":"10185","edm":"613","session":"2009-10","title":"Charlton Athletic Fc And Millwall Fc Anti-Street Violence Campaigns","text":"That this House commends Charlton Athletic FC and Millwall FC for dedicating their football match on 19 December 2009 to the memory of Jimmy Mizen and Rob Knox who were both the victims of street violence; recalls that Jimmy Mizen and Rob Knox were tragically killed in two separate unprovoked violent attacks; expresses its appreciation to the families of these two young men for the selfless and courageous work they have done to prevent other people becoming victims of street violence; congratulates Charlton Athletic Community Trust for its campaign Street Violence Ruins Lives and both clubs for the work that they do in the community to guide young people away from criminal behaviour into positive activities; acknowledges the generosity of KRBS, the financial sponsors of Charlton Athletic and CYC Logistics, financial sponsors of Millwall, for allowing their logos on the players shirts to be replaced with the Street Violence Ruins Lives motif to enable the clubs to convey a powerful message to football supporters about the futility of street violence; notes that money raised from the sale of these unique shirts will go to the Jimmy Mizen Foundation and the Rob Knox Memorial Fund; and wishes everyone involved with Charlton, Millwall, and the charities dedicated to the memory of Jimmy and Rob every success in their endeavours to prevent young people becoming involved in street violence.","date":"2010-01-14","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40156","proposer":"10231","edm":"577","session":"2009-10","title":"Construction Of Temporary Olympic Arena","text":"That this House notes with concern proposals by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games to incur the added expense of constructing temporary arena for a number of events including badminton, shooting and equestrian sports; believes that such expenditure is unnecessary particularly when public finances are stretched; and calls on Her Majesty's Government, the Olympic Board and the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games to make best use of existing, first class facilities in and around London.","date":"2010-01-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40086","proposer":"10329","edm":"513","session":"2009-10","title":"England's 2018 World Cup Bid","text":"That this House welcomes the announcement of the host cities for England's bid for the FIFA 2018 World Cup; congratulates the successful cities and praises all of the applicant cities for the strength of their applications and support for the bid as well as their dedication and commitment to both football and their communities; and calls on everyone throughout England to build on this enthusiasm to demonstrate the nation's unique passion for football, and to back the bid.","date":"2009-12-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"40099","proposer":"11672","edm":"526","session":"2009-10","title":"2018 World Cup Host Stadia","text":"That this House is delighted that Leeds' Elland Road stadium is among those chosen by the Football Association for inclusion in England's 2018 World Cup bid and congratulates the other successful candidates; recognises the high quality and prestigious nature of stadia included and hopes that the list has significantly strengthened England's bid; believes that Leeds deserves its position amongst such high profile stadia; is confident that Elland Road and the City of Leeds have both the resources and commitment to make an excellent host city and that the people of Leeds will prove to be excellent hosts should the bid be successful; commends the hard work and dedication of Leeds City Council and all those who supported the Back the Bid Campaign; recognises the positive impact such an event will have on the local economy; and looks forward to Elland Road being one of the selected venues, chosen in 2010.","date":"2009-12-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39990","proposer":"10045","edm":"426","session":"2009-10","title":"Sports Personality Of The Year In Sheffield","text":"That this House congratulates the BBC for holding the Sports Personality of the Year Awards outside of London for the third year running; welcomes the event to Sheffield Arena; recognises that it is particularly appropriate to hold it in Sheffield because of the city's foresight and commitment in developing the most comprehensive set of world class sporting facilities in the UK and in providing quality training opportunities for many of the UK's most successful sportsmen and women over the last 20 years; recognises that Sheffield is the home city of so many of the UK's top sports personalities including Lord Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the London 2012 Olympic Games Organising Committee and Olympic Medal winner Jessica Ennis.","date":"2009-12-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39948","proposer":"10258","edm":"386","session":"2009-10","title":"Welfare Of Racing Greyhounds","text":"That this House calls on the Government to acknowledge that the draft regulations under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 on the welfare of the 30,000 greyhounds used for racing are, following consultation, acceptable only to the gambling industry and have been conclusively rejected by over 10,000 concerned individuals and animal welfare organisations because of their inadequacies in regulation and extension to kennelling and retirement; and further calls on the Government to ensure that hon. Members are given adequate opportunity to consider the provisions of any regulation laid before the House before being asked to decide on them.","date":"2009-12-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39939","proposer":"10056","edm":"378","session":"2009-10","title":"British Grand Prix At Silverstone","text":"That this House congratulates the British Racing Drivers' Club on the successful outcome of its negotiations to secure the British Grand Prix at Silverstone for the forseeable future; welcomes the good sense shown by all sides; celebrates the continuation of this unique historic venue for world-class motorsport, as a real national asset and major source of employment; and calls for all interested public agencies and private sector entities to co-operate in a programme of works to ensure world-class facilities for the future.","date":"2009-12-07","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39877","proposer":"10780","edm":"317","session":"2009-10","title":"Ulster Olympian Skater","text":"That this House notes the outstanding ice skating achievements of Coleraine woman, Jenna McCorkell, in winning the British Senior Ice Skating Championships for a record breaking seventh time, and in qualifying, for the first time ever for a Northern Ireland ice skater, for the British and Northern Ireland team to compete in the forthcoming Olympic Games; commends her magnificent efforts thus far; and wishes her every success for Northern Ireland in the Vancouver Winter Olympics.","date":"2009-12-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39846","proposer":"11672","edm":"286","session":"2009-10","title":"Kick Bullying Into Touch Campaign","text":"That this House commends and supports Premier Rugby's Kick Bullying Into Touch campaign which teaches young people about how to deal with bullying; praises the Guinness Premiership clubs for nominating ambassadors such as Paul Sackey, Ugo Monye and England captain Steve Borthwick as inspirational figures to represent the campaign; further praises the programme reaching over 17,000 children to date, with 97 per cent. of children taking part having a better understanding of different forms of bullying; and hopes that the programme will continue to flourish and help young people to kick bullying into touch.","date":"2009-11-30","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39849","proposer":"10295","edm":"289","session":"2009-10","title":"Rugby League Statue At Wembley Stadium","text":"That this House notes the lack of any statue dedicated to rugby league at Wembley Stadium; recognises the important historical link between the game of rugby league and Wembley Stadium, the venue which has hosted the Rugby League Challenge Cup Final since 1929; welcomes the recognition given to other sports in the form of statues and artwork at the new Wembley Stadium; believes that rugby league should also be recognised, given the long and successful Challenge Cup Final tradition; and calls on the Rugby Football League to work with the Wembley authorities to ensure that a statue is erected at the site.","date":"2009-11-30","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39805","proposer":"11093","edm":"262","session":"2009-10","title":"Lee Westwood","text":"That this House congratulates Lee John Westwood of Worksop, Nottinghamshire, for his recent victory at the Dubai World Championship on 22 November 2009 and his victory at the Portugal Masters on 19 October 2009; salutes his achievement as Europe's top ranked professional golfer and as the inaugural winner of the Race to Dubai title; recognises Mr Westwood for all of his accomplishments in the game of golf; and wishes him future successes in the world of golf.","date":"2009-11-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39817","proposer":"10045","edm":"274","session":"2009-10","title":"League Football Education","text":"That this House congratulates League Football Education on its success in promoting and enhancing educational and vocational training for apprentice footballers aged 16 to 18 at the 72 Football League clubs; further congratulates the organisation in achieving framework achievements of 91 per cent., 20 per cent. above the national average in the sector; notes that as one of the leaders in work-based learning in the UK it has provided a vital contribution to the national skills agenda; and encourages funding partners to support the work of the organisation going forward.","date":"2009-11-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39753","proposer":"10614","edm":"213","session":"2009-10","title":"Barry Mcguigan Boxing Academy","text":"That this House congratulates Barry McGuigan in setting up a boxing academy that highlights the importance of grassroots community sports facilities; notes the significance of icons of the sporting world in establishing projects that will inspire young people to develop their skills and true potential; recognises the contribution to the boxing community that Barry McGuigan as the former WBO Featherweight Champion has made by creating the Professional Boxing Association designed to support the welfare as well as the education of boxers; hopes that the Boxing Academy will be a great success in Leicester; and looks forward to the creation of other new centres in cities across the country.","date":"2009-11-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39765","proposer":"10780","edm":"145A1","session":"2009-10","title":"London 2012 Olympics And Tourism","text":"after `VisitWales', insert `and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board'.","date":"2009-11-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39688","proposer":"11672","edm":"149","session":"2009-10","title":"Lizzie Armitstead And Cycling Track World Cup","text":"That this House congratulates Otley resident Lizzie Armitstead and the whole British team's cycling success at the Track World Cup in Manchester; further congratulates Lizzie, Wendy Houvenaghel and Joanna Rowsell in setting a new world record in the Team Pursuit event, shaving almost half a second from the previous record; hopes the team continue to be great role models for aspiring cyclists and athletes across the country; applauds Lizzie for winning two gold medals in the Women's Points race and Women's Team Pursuit; praises the Track World Event as an example of how Britain is leading the world in cycling; further hopes that the British team continues its run of success; and looks forward to seeing Lizzie, Wendy and Joanna triumph at the 2012 Olympics.","date":"2009-11-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39710","proposer":"10295","edm":"174","session":"2009-10","title":"Memorial To Rugby League War Veterans","text":"That this House notes the number of rugby league players who died while serving their country; in particular notes the efforts of former Hull player Jack Harrison who was awarded the Victoria Cross for his heroic efforts during the First World War; pays tribute to many other players who have served in the military; further notes that participation in rugby league amongst the armed forces continues to grow; and calls on the Rugby Football League to fund the erection of a dedicated memorial to all those players who served in the armed forces and died whilst on active service at the national memorial arboretum.","date":"2009-11-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39714","proposer":"10248","edm":"178","session":"2009-10","title":"Sporting Listed Events","text":"That this House urges the Government to support the recommendations of the Davies Committee that the following events be added to the list of the Crown jewels of sport which must be offered to free-to-air television at a fair and reasonable price, namely the Ashes, the football qualifying matches of the home nations in the home nation concerned, Six Nations rugby in Wales, the Open Golf Championship, the Rugby Union World Cup and the Wimbledon tennis tournament; supports the views of the British Olympic Association and the Rugby Football League respectively that the Winter Olympics and the Rugby League Challenge Cup Final should be retained on the list; notes that Deloitte in a report prepared for BSkyB commented on the positive relationship between free-to-air exposure and sponsorship income and that the marketing director of npower has hinted that having the Ashes back on free-to-air television may persuade the company to continue sponsorship beyond its present deals; and further notes that given that all major sports are recipients of substantial sums of public and Lottery money to fund their grassroots, the great national and international sporting events which unite the nation should be freely available on television to inspire all whatever their age or their income.","date":"2009-11-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39682","proposer":"11333","edm":"145","session":"2009-10","title":"London 2012 Olympics And Tourism","text":"That this House recognises the potential of the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics have for tourism; believes that this should be marketed and maximised to benefit all parts of the UK and not solely focus on local attractions in London; and calls on all stakeholders, including VisitBritain, VisitScotland and VisitWales to work together to maximise the tourism benefits of the Games.","date":"2009-11-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39683","proposer":"12004","edm":"146","session":"2009-10","title":"Television Replay Evidence In Football Matches","text":"That this House calls on FIFA to cease its opposition to the introduction of television replay evidence in televised football matches, a position that denies referees the best possible means of doing their job, that leads to demonstrably unjust decisions and outcomes of matches, and blemishes the reputations of great players who are tempted to deceive the referee and the wider public audience.","date":"2009-11-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39585","proposer":"10672","edm":"48","session":"2009-10","title":"Televising Of Rugby League Challenge Cup Final","text":"That this House notes that Rugby League is played in every nation in the United Kingdom, and in every county in England; and believes the Rugby League Challenge Cup Final is a sporting event of national importance that should be available to all fans on free to view terrestrial television, and that the Davies Committee recommendations should be rejected.","date":"2009-11-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39631","proposer":"10258","edm":"94","session":"2009-10","title":"Racehorse Breeding In The United Kingdom","text":"That this House is alarmed by evidence suggesting that many healthy but unprofitable thoroughbreds are slaughtered in British abattoirs or shot in racing yards every year; notes that the Chairman of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has acknowledged the problem of over-production of racehorses; believes that horse welfare problems flowing from racehorse over-production are likely to worsen as a result of the BHA's future fixtures list which will deny racing opportunities to hundreds of lower-rated horses; further notes that every year more than 160 horses die or are destroyed due to racecourse injuries; calls on the Government to undertake and put into the public domain a full audit of racehorse production, death and injury; and asks it to urge racing's regulators to act decisively to remedy the problems of racehorse over-production and the alarming level of equine death on British racecourses.","date":"2009-11-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39638","proposer":"10298","edm":"102","session":"2009-10","title":"World Champion David Haye","text":"That this House congratulates David Haye, a Bermondsey boy and the pride of Fitzroy Lodge Boxing Club and of South London, all of the capital city and the United Kingdom, on his huge success in winning the World Boxing Association World Heavyweight title in Germany on 7 November 2009; salutes this victory of David against Goliath; and wishes him continuing great success both as a world boxing champion and as a role model for young men in London and in many places much further afield.","date":"2009-11-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39521","proposer":"10298","edm":"2259","session":"2008-09","title":"David Haye -\u0000 World Champion","text":"That this House congratulates David Haye, a Bermondsey boy and the pride of south London, all of our capital city and the United Kingdom, on his huge success in winning the World Boxing Association World Heavyweight title in Germany on 7 November 2009; salutes this victory of David against Goliath; and wishes him continuing great success both as a world boxing champion and as a role model for young men in London and in many places much further afield.","date":"2009-11-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39502","proposer":"10415","edm":"2241","session":"2008-09","title":"Launch By Sir Bobby Charlton Of Blackpool Fc's It's A Goal Initiative","text":"That this House congratulates Blackpool Football Club and NHS Blackpool on the launch by Sir Bobby Charlton at the Bloomfield Road ground of their It's a Goal initiative, a programme using the appeal of football and the facilities of the club, to encourage young men with mental health issues to get support and help in that informal and social setting; applauds the work of Sir Bobby Charlton as an ambassador for the initiative and his reunion at the launch with his friend and 1966 World Cup team-mate Jimmy Armfield, whose role as a champion in Blackpool for this and so many other community initiatives in the town is being underlined by naming the club's new stand the Jimmy Armfield stand; notes that Blackpool NHS's innovative basing of its staff in offices at the ground tangibly expresses how Blackpool Football Club is at the heart of the community; and further congratulates Karl Oyston and his family, Terry Lamb and Derek Spence, team manager Ian Holloway and all the players for their consistent support for this and other community initiatives in Blackpool.","date":"2009-11-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39474","proposer":"11672","edm":"2214","session":"2008-09","title":"Televised England V Australia Rugby League Match","text":"That this House praises the decision to televise the Rugby League Four Nations match between England and Australia; welcomes the game being shown on terrestrial television where it is available to everyone without a subscription; appreciates high quality Rugby League being made available to fans and potential fans of all ages; commends the BBC for giving space in the schedule to show Rugby League games in full and without interruption; hopes to see an increase in the scheduled time given by the BBC and other broadcasters to Rugby League games; pays tribute to the work done by the Rugby Football League to organise the tournament; and welcomes the contribution made by the Four Nations contest to invigorate international Rugby League in the UK.","date":"2009-11-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39471","proposer":"10118","edm":"2211","session":"2008-09","title":"St James' Park","text":"That this House regrets the intention of the current owners of Newcastle United Football Club to consider renaming St James' Park, an integral part of the City of Newcastle and Tyneside since 1892 and renowned throughout the world of football and beyond as symbolic of the game, and of the loyalty of its supporters to their club; and calls on the club's owners to reconsider or ensure that whatever sponsorship deals they may seek, the name St James' Park lives on in football and in Newcastle.","date":"2009-11-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39453","proposer":"11672","edm":"2193","session":"2008-09","title":"Commonwealth Mountain And Ultra Distance Championships","text":"That this House praises the success of the inaugural Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Distance Championships in Keswick; celebrates the vibrancy of the sport of ultra running; recognises the work done by organisers and volunteers to bring representatives of so many Commonwealth countries together such as New Zealand, Australia, Canada and raise the profile of ultra running; congratulates the British team on an excellent team result; is concerned at the lack of coverage of this important sporting event; and calls on broadcasters to give a higher priority to the reporting of ultra running.","date":"2009-10-29","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39393","proposer":"10296","edm":"2148","session":"2008-09","title":"Skydiving World Record And Breast Cancer Awareness","text":"That this House congratulates the British female skydiving team Brit Chicks on its successful contribution to achieving a new skydiving world record at Perris, California on 26 September 2009; commends Brit Chicks for being part of the international group of women skydivers achieving the record of 181-way freefall formation; and pays tribute to all the skydivers who took part in Jump for the Cause, raising over $900,000 for breast cancer research and promoting breast cancer research awareness worldwide.","date":"2009-10-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39401","proposer":"11814","edm":"2156","session":"2008-09","title":"Football Clubs And Local Charities","text":"That this House congratulates Sheffield Wednesday FC on its decision to engage as its main sponsor The Children's Hospital in Sheffield; recognises the potential this creates for raising significant sums of money for a highly valued charity; notes that this partnership has already raised \u00a350,000 for the charity and that the first major business has announced a sponsorship deal which will benefit both partners; and calls on other professional clubs to follow Sheffield Wednesday's lead in forgoing sponsorship deals in order to build effective links with local charities and the communities they serve.","date":"2009-10-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39342","proposer":"10076","edm":"2110","session":"2008-09","title":"World Championship Achievements Of Jenson Button And Brawn Gp","text":"That this House celebrates the success of Jenson Button and Brawn GP in winning the Formula 1 World Drivers and Constructors championships; recognises the massive achievement that this represents as the Brawn team was only created at the start of 2009 following the withdrawal of Honda from Formula 1; pays tribute to all those who have contributed to this achievement, including the drivers, Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello, the leadership team of Ross Brawn and Nick Fry, all the current staff of Brawn GP and all those former Honda employees who are no longer with Brawn but whose work before 2009 also helped build the foundations for success this year; and notes that Brawn's success underlines the excellence of the UK's motorsport and performance engineering industries.","date":"2009-10-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39304","proposer":"10190","edm":"2073","session":"2008-09","title":"Congratulations To Jenson Button","text":"That this House congratulates Jenson Button on winning the Formula 1 Drivers' World Championship; recognises that he has led the championship from the very first race and is a worthy champion; notes that the championship has been won by British drivers for the last two years; praises Mark Webber for his victory in the Brazilian Grand Prix; and further recognises that drivers from the Commonwealth have had a fantastic season.","date":"2009-10-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39315","proposer":"10780","edm":"2084","session":"2008-09","title":"Glasgow Rangers","text":"That this House notes the generous gesture of Glasgow Rangers Football Club in ensuring that around 1,200 British soldiers will have access to free tickets for their home Champions League game against Unirea Urziceni; supports all military personnel serving in difficult and hostile locations across the world; recognises that it is sometimes the case that British football teams playing in Europe can host visiting teams not taking up their ticket allocation, as on this occasion; and calls on other UK-based clubs currently in European competitions and in similar circumstances to do likewise.","date":"2009-10-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39319","proposer":"11784","edm":"2088","session":"2008-09","title":"Internet Only England Football Match","text":"That this House regrets that the England FIFA World Cup qualifier match played on 10 October 2009 was only available to view online; notes that all previously broadcast England matches have been available on television; further notes that many people in Britain do not have access to the internet; welcomes the use of technology in sport; and concludes that until universal internet is achieved, England matches should be shown on television to enable all fans to watch them and for public houses to screen them.","date":"2009-10-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39277","proposer":"10657","edm":"2047","session":"2008-09","title":"Rugby World Cup And Rugby In The Olympics","text":"That this House welcomes the decision to award the 2015 Rugby World Cup, the world's third largest sporting event, to the Rugby Football Union; notes the wide appeal of rugby union as the fastest growing team sport in England and its general appeal across the UK; recognises the positive impact the Rugby World Cup will have on participation levels, spectator numbers and the wider UK economy; wishes the organising team every success in its delivery; and further welcomes the decision by the International Olympic Committee to include Rugby 7s in the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games.","date":"2009-10-14","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39283","proposer":"10780","edm":"2053","session":"2008-09","title":"British Motor Sport Champion From Northern Ireland","text":"That this House notes the outstanding achievement of Colin Turkington in winning the British Touring Car Championship; further notes that the final race at Brands Hatch was closely contested among three drivers; warmly congratulates Mr Turkington on a magnificent victory; and wishes him every success in the future as he represents Northern Ireland on the world stage.","date":"2009-10-14","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39245","proposer":"11672","edm":"2016","session":"2008-09","title":"Rugby League World Cup 2013 (No. 2)","text":"That this House welcomes the decision that the 2013 Rugby League World Cup will be played in the UK; notes the wide appeal of the sport both in the United Kingdom and elsewhere; recognises the positive impact such an event will have on participation levels, spectator numbers and the UK economy; and wishes those putting on the event every success in its delivery.","date":"2009-10-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39255","proposer":"11245","edm":"2026","session":"2008-09","title":"Youth Jobs In Sport And Leisure","text":"That this House notes that the Government plans to create 2,000 jobs in the sport and leisure industry, but is concerned that imposing a 10 month unemployed rule on access to sports jobs would improperly disadvantage youngsters who have studied sports science and management; and calls on the Government to ensure equality of opportunity and not to discriminate against youngsters who have worked hard to gain sport and leisure qualifications.","date":"2009-10-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39213","proposer":"11672","edm":"1983","session":"2008-09","title":"Leeds Rhinos Historic Third Consecutive Super League Title","text":"That this House congratulates Leeds Rhinos on making history by winning a third consecutive Grand Final by beating St Helens 18-10, thus becoming the first team to be crowned champions of Super League for three successive years since the establishment of Super League; applauds captain and man of the match Kevin Sinfield for raising the Super League Trophy for the third time in three seasons; praises Leeds Rhinos coach Brian McClennan on winning the Super League title on his first two seasons in charge of the club; pays tribute to the whole team and coaching staff for another great season; acknowledges the important role that a successful sporting team can play in the surrounding community and the position of players of such a club as role models to young people in the local area and beyond; and welcomes the positive impact of the Grand Final as a major national and international sporting occasion, adding to the continuing success of Rugby League.","date":"2009-10-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39218","proposer":"11672","edm":"1988","session":"2008-09","title":"Leeds United Back The Bid","text":"That this House supports the fans of Leeds United in their efforts to secure World Cup football at Elland Road; notes that Elland Road is the most appropriate venue in Yorkshire for such a tournament; welcomes the investment that the awarding of World Cup football would bring to the stadium, the city and the wider region; and recognises the benefits of increased tourism during the tournament to the city of Leeds and the County of Yorkshire.","date":"2009-10-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39219","proposer":"11973","edm":"1989","session":"2008-09","title":"Dundee United Fc Centenary","text":"That this House congratulates Dundee United Football Club on its hundredth anniversary; notes that United played its first game on 18 August 1909 as Dundee Hibernian which resulted in a 1-1 draw with Hibernian; further notes that in 1910 Dundee United joined the Scottish Football League and went on to win all of Scotland's major football honours, winning the League Cup in 1979-80 and 1980-81, the League in 1982-83 and the Scottish Cup in 1993-94; further notes that United were the first Scottish side to reach the final of the UEFA Cup in 1987 and although they were narrowly beaten by IFK Gothenburg, FIFA awarded its first-ever Fair Play Award to the club for the sporting behaviour of the fans at Tannadice Park; acknowledges the contribution Dundee United have made to international football, hosting international players from three continents and producing some of Scotland's greats including Dave Narey who famously put Scotland ahead against Brazil in the 1982 World Cup with a toe poke; and wishes all the players, staff and fans good luck for their centenary year.","date":"2009-10-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39158","proposer":"10304","edm":"1932","session":"2008-09","title":"Amir Khan","text":"That this House congratulates Bolton boxer Amir Khan on his victory over Andriy Kotelnik to take the World Boxing Association light-welterweight title at the MEN Arena on 18 July 2009.","date":"2009-07-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39166","proposer":"10295","edm":"1940","session":"2008-09","title":"British Cycling","text":"That this House welcomes the strength of British cycling; congratulates Mark Cavendish on winning eight stages in the Tour de France, equalling the record for the number of stage wins by a British rider in the Tour; notes the excellent performance by Bradley Wiggins who is currently in 3rd place in the overall standings for the Tour de France; recognises that this success builds on the superb effort of cyclists in the 2008 Beijing Olympics in which British cyclists won 14 medals; further recognises that this success will help attract more people to the sport; and looks forward to British cycling going from strength to strength, achieving even greater success at the 2012 London Olympics and future cycling races including the Tour de France.","date":"2009-07-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39170","proposer":"10062","edm":"1944","session":"2008-09","title":"World Lacrosse Championships In 2010 In Manchester","text":"That this House notes the approaching FIL Men's World Lacrosse Championships, competed for by 33 international teams, due to take place in Manchester in July 2010, bringing over 20,000 people to the region with an estimated economic impact of \u00c2\u00a36.7 million; further notes that although it has been the policy of UK Sport to fund major sporting events in the UK, the World Lacrosse Championships, costing English Lacrosse \u00c2\u00a31.4 million, has been denied funding; further notes that the England Men's team, ranked 5th in the world, will be competing; further notes that it costs up to \u00c2\u00a3300,000 to run the squad each year and that Sport England funding is not provided to cover this cost, leaving players to pay their own way; regrets that lacrosse is not recognised by the International Olympic Committee despite its popularity around the world; and congratulates the England women's team on finishing 4th in the recent 2009 Lacrosse World Cup.","date":"2009-07-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39171","proposer":"10185","edm":"1945","session":"2008-09","title":"Eltham Town Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Eltham Town Football Club's under-16 team on its success at becoming the Kent Football League Champions and winners of the London FA Cup for the 2008-09 season; recognises the contribution the club makes to the community of Eltham through the opportunities it provides for young people to participate in sport; welcomes the partnership that it has entered into with Greenwich Council to encourage more young people to engage in sport; and wishes the club every success in the future.","date":"2009-07-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39141","proposer":"10070","edm":"1916","session":"2008-09","title":"Cricket In Scotland","text":"That this House welcomes the comments of Roddy Smith, Chief Executive of Cricket Scotland, that there is a huge interest in cricket among Scottish people, including in the current Ashes series; congratulates Cricket Scotland and the many community cricket clubs in Scotland for their endeavours in increasing the popularity of the sport in Scotland; looks forward with anticipation to the one day international between Scotland and Australia; deplores the comments of Scottish Nationalists in the Scottish Parliament that cricket is of no interest in Scotland; and rejects their demand that it should be censored from terrestrial sports bulletins as mean-spirited and anti-sport.","date":"2009-07-16","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"39021","proposer":"10614","edm":"1812","session":"2008-09","title":"Special Olympics","text":"That this House welcomes the Special Olympics Britain Summer Games in Leicester between 25 and 31 July 2009; recognises the huge contribution of the Special Olympics movement in transforming the lives of intellectually disabled athletes by providing competitions and year round sports training to nurture their sporting abilities; notes that over 2,700 athletes representing 19 Special Olympics regions across the UK will visit Leicester along with 1,200 coaches and 1,500 volunteers; further recognises that providing these services at local, national and international levels requires significant funding; acknowledges the many opportunities and benefits for athletes, families and the wider community that will result from events in the UK and across the EU; appreciates the wider public benefits of delivering on priorities for volunteering development, social inclusion, integration and equal opportunities; endorses the written declaration by the European Parliament on 23 April 2009 acknowledging the contribution of Special Olympics and calling on the European Commission to support the European Special Olympics Summer Games in Warsaw in 2010 and the World Special Olympics Summer Games in Athens in 2011; commends the Sports Minister for his efforts to provide financial assistance to Special Olympics GB; and urges the Government fully to support Special Olympics Europe Eurasia by encouraging the European Commission to provide appropriate funding.","date":"2009-07-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38907","proposer":"10439","edm":"1714","session":"2008-09","title":"Work Of The Alive And Kicking Charity","text":"That this House commends the work of Alive and Kicking, a charity which takes on previously unemployed adults in Kenya, Zambia and South Africa to hand-stitch durable sports balls for local communities; welcomes the opportunity that these sports balls give for children in some of the poorest communities in Africa to play games; notes that every job provided by Alive and Kicking usually supports an extended family of up to seven or eight people; recognises the importance of the health messages printed on the balls, which raise awareness of HIV and AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis; and wishes this innovative charity a successful future, particularly in the build-up to the 2010 World Cup which is to be held in South Africa.","date":"2009-06-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38848","proposer":"11333","edm":"1663","session":"2008-09","title":"Andy Murray And The Aegon Championship","text":"That this House congratulates Andy Murray on winning the AEGON Championship; notes he is now ranked number three in the world; and wishes him the very best of luck at Wimbledon next month.","date":"2009-06-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38854","proposer":"10339","edm":"1669","session":"2008-09","title":"Royal Bank Of Scotland And Liverpool Fc","text":"That this House notes the Government's 60 per cent. stake in the Royal Bank of Scotland; further notes that the Royal Bank of Scotland provides a credit facility for the American ownership of Liverpool FC; is aware that the American owners have failed to deliver a new stadium for Liverpool FC, thereby delaying indefinitely the regeneration of one of the most needy areas of the country; and therefore calls on the Government to ensure that the Royal Bank of Scotland does not renew that credit facility at the end of its current term.","date":"2009-06-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38813","proposer":"11707","edm":"1628","session":"2008-09","title":"Withington Under 17s Football Team And The Streetlife Cup","text":"That this House congratulates Withington under-17s football team on winning the Streetlife Cup at the City of Manchester Stadium on 29 May 2009; notes that the Streetlife Cup was established in 2006 as part of an initiative by Manchester City Council to provide young people who do not ordinarily have the chance to partake in structured, competitive sport with the opportunity to do so; and welcomes this type of event as a means of engaging young people in healthy, fun, organised activities.","date":"2009-06-10","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38780","proposer":"11707","edm":"1602","session":"2008-09","title":"Premier League Season Tickets","text":"That this House welcomes the decision by Blackburn Rovers to cut a number of their season ticket prices to just \u00c2\u00a3199 for the 2009-10 season; notes this represents the lowest priced Premier League season ticket for a decade; further notes that this will make the club's season tickets the third cheapest out of all four professional divisions with only Accrington Stanley and Huddersfield offering less expensive season tickets; further welcomes the fact that this move will make Premier League football more accessible to fans, especially in the current economic climate; and urges other clubs to follow suit and cut their ticket prices.","date":"2009-06-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38745","proposer":"11672","edm":"1567","session":"2008-09","title":"Promotion Of Leeds Carnegie To The Guinness Premiership","text":"That this House congratulates Leeds Carnegie on its recent triumph in winning National Division One and securing promotion to the Guinness Premiership; notes the scale of the club's achievement in winning promotion as champions after only one season outside of the top flight; and recognises the important part that successful sporting teams play within the communities which surround them.","date":"2009-06-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38731","proposer":"10487","edm":"1554","session":"2008-09","title":"Burnley Football Club","text":"That this House warmly congratulates Burnley FC on its promotion to the Premier League after an absence of 33 years from the top division; and believes the club's success is richly deserved and will boost and give encouragement to the town and East Lancashire as a whole.","date":"2009-06-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38739","proposer":"10248","edm":"1562","session":"2008-09","title":"Cricket And The Sporting Listed Events Review","text":"That this House is concerned that the 2009 Ashes series will be the first home Ashes series not to be available live on free-to-air television for the entire nation to enjoy; notes that cricket is the only major sport to have no live coverage on free-to-air television; further notes that the Ashes series will be live in Australia on free-to-air channel SBS because it is protected both home and away by anti-siphoning legislation; believes that, particularly to inspire the young to take up the game, some live cricket should go on the A List of events which must be made available to free-to-air broadcasters such as the BBC and Channel 4 at a fair and reasonable price; and further believes that this should include the home Ashes series and at least part of the Cricket World Cup and Twenty20 World Cup.","date":"2009-06-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38740","proposer":"10248","edm":"1563","session":"2008-09","title":"Football And The Sporting Listed Events Review","text":"That this House welcomes the review of sporting listed events which must be made available to free-to-air broadcasters such as the BBC and ITV at a fair and reasonable price; is concerned that FIFA and UEFA want to take most of the World Cup and European Championship finals matches off the A List to allow them to be auctioned off to subscription or pay TV; believes that it would be a travesty if England were to host the 2018 World Cup finals and most of the matches could not be watched live by those who could not afford to pay; further believes that the World Cup and European Championship finals are unique sporting events of national and international significance which should remain accessible to all in their entirety; and in addition recommends that all qualifying matches of the home nations should be available live free-to-air in the home nation concerned and that the A List should be amended accordingly.","date":"2009-06-01","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38717","proposer":"10852","edm":"1546","session":"2008-09","title":"Gloucester City Football Club And The Football Association","text":"That this House congratulates Gloucester City AFC on its promotion from the BGB League; notes that the club has had to play all of its `home' matches at Cirencester, over 20 miles from the city, since the loss of Gloucester's Meadow Park ground in the great floods of 2007; notes with incredulity the Football Association's suggestion that Gloucester City should be promoted to the Blue Square Conference North rather than the Blue Square Conference South, despite the fact that it would entail round trip journeys of upwards of 560 miles to play teams like Blyth Spartans; and supports the campaign led by fans, residents and readers of the Gloucester Citizen newspaper to see the club promoted to the Blue Square Conference South.","date":"2009-05-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38680","proposer":"10614","edm":"1510","session":"2008-09","title":"Leicester Tigers Guinness Premiership Champions","text":"That this House congratulates Leicester Tigers for winning Rugby Union's Guinness Premiership Final; notes that the win gave the Tigers a record eighth League Title; further notes that the club has now won six of the last 11 Premiership Titles; and commends the support of the club's fans over the course of the season.","date":"2009-05-18","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38667","proposer":"10383","edm":"1496","session":"2008-09","title":"Hayes And Yeading United","text":"That this House congratulates Hayes and Yeading United on achieving promotion to the Blue Square Conference Premiership, only two years after the formation of the club through the merger of Hayes FC and Yeading FC; and recognises the valuable role community clubs like Hayes and Yeading United play within the local community, particularly in promoting opportunities to participate in sport for young people and opening up their facilities for wider community use.","date":"2009-05-14","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38655","proposer":"10526","edm":"1484","session":"2008-09","title":"Steve Coppell","text":"That this House pays tribute to the career of former Reading Football Club manager Steve Coppell; applauds the honesty, decency, modesty, and professionalism he has displayed throughout his managerial career at all his clubs including Brighton, Brentford, Crystal Palace, and Reading; notes that he has been the most successful manager in the history of Reading FC, taking the club to the Premiership for the first time in its 135 year history in a season which saw the club achieve a record 106 points when it was crowned Championship winners in April 2006; further notes his success in the Premiership in guiding Reading to 8th place, the club's highest ever position; congratulates him for his numerous awards including the League Managers' Association Manager of the Year in May 2006; regrets his decision to resign as manager of Reading FC but wishes him well in the future and considers him to be a magnificent role model of both a professional footballer and manager.","date":"2009-05-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38657","proposer":"10118","edm":"1486","session":"2008-09","title":"Gateshead Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Gateshead Football Club, its supporters, players, management team and all associated with the club in gaining promotion to the Blue Square Premier League; and wishes the club well on its way to returning to its rightful place in the Football League.","date":"2009-05-13","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38626","proposer":"10295","edm":"1458","session":"2008-09","title":"Andy Murray And British Tennis","text":"That this House congratulates Andy Murray on his move into the top three of the ATP world rankings; notes that Murray is the highest-ranking British tennis player since the current system was established in 1973; recognises his achievement in the week that marks the centenary of Fred Perry's birth, the name synonymous with British tennis success following his three Wimbledon championships titles in the 1930s; hopes that Murray's success will be an inspiration to budding young tennis stars; and wishes Murray luck in his pursuit of a Grand Slam title and further career victories.","date":"2009-05-11","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38588","proposer":"10614","edm":"1425","session":"2008-09","title":"Racism In Football","text":"That this House welcomes the steps being taken by the Football Association to counter racism in football; applauds the proposals of the Football Association's working group on tackling Islamophobia and anti-Semitism in football to introduce tribunals to investigate racist and religious abuse at all levels of the game; encourages the football authorities fully to utilise the powers at their disposal to tackle all forms of abuse; recognises the need for the football community as a whole to unite to stamp out intolerance in the sport; and looks forward to the publication of the working group's report containing their full recommendations later in the year.","date":"2009-05-05","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38548","proposer":"11607","edm":"1387","session":"2008-09","title":"Halifax Rugby League Football Club","text":"That this House recognises the success currently being enjoyed by Halifax Rugby League Football Club that is top of the Co-operative Championship League with a 100 per cent. winning run; pays tribute to the players and coaching staff for the high quality performances and gives equal credit to the excellent and loyal supporters who back the team; further recognises that Halifax has a long and proud history in Rugby League as former Challenge Cup winners, Yorkshire Cup winners and League One champions; believes that Halifax Rugby League Football Club should once again be promoted to the Super League with both a stadium and team fit for purpose; and urges the Rugby Football League to review its current three year franchise policy with a view to allowing Halifax to enter the Super League for the beginning of the 2010 season.","date":"2009-04-29","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38556","proposer":"11427","edm":"1395","session":"2008-09","title":"Gateshead Under-13s Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Gateshead Under-13s Football Club on reaching the final of the English Schools Football Association Inter-Association Trophy Final; recognises its achievement in beating teams such as Liverpool, York, Barnsley and Newcastle on the way to the final; celebrates the success of all the players who come from schools across Gateshead; and anticipates the exciting final against Northampton Town Under-13s which will be held at St James' Park, the home ground of Newcastle United Football Club on 17 May 2009.","date":"2009-04-29","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38507","proposer":"10166","edm":"1352","session":"2008-09","title":"Burton Albion Fc Blue Square Premier Champions","text":"That this House congratulates Burton Albion Football Club on winning the Blue Square Premier title and its promotion to the Football League; notes that this is the first time that Burton Albion will be playing in the Football League; commends the players and the leadership of Chairman Ben Robinson, Manager Roy McFarland and former Manager Nigel Clough; thanks the fans for their magnificent support over the course of this historic season; and looks forward to the Brewers building on this success in the future.","date":"2009-04-27","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38488","proposer":"10288","edm":"1337","session":"2008-09","title":"Luton Town Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Luton Town Football Club on winning the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at Wembley, beating a team from the upper part of a higher division; believes that this demonstrates the passion, commitment and skill of all the team's players and manager; notes also the many thousands of loyal Luton Town supporters who went to Wembley to cheer on the team, clearly showing the massive level of support for the team in and around Luton; considers that it is a travesty of justice that the club has now been relegated from the Football League following the grotesquely unfair deduction of 30 points; and confidently expects Luton to be challenging for promotion next year and going on to even greater success in future years.","date":"2009-04-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38489","proposer":"10428","edm":"1338","session":"2008-09","title":"Coverage Of Horseracing And The BBC","text":"That this House notes that the BBC has recently decided to reduce the coverage of horseracing in its programming, despite the fact that more than 100,000 of its customers have already signed a petition against such a strategy; reminds the Corporation that the sport employs directly or indirectly more than 150,000 people, enjoys the support of millions more and is currently responsible annually for the generation of a large amount of money which finds its way into HM Treasury coffers; and calls on the Government to remind those in charge of the Corporation that a major part of their task is to champion the interests of licence fee payers, which in this instance they are not.","date":"2009-04-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38475","proposer":"11489","edm":"1324","session":"2008-09","title":"Aberystwyth Town Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Aberystwyth Town Football Club on reaching the Welsh Cup Final for the first time in 109 years after a thrilling extra time victory against Carmarthen Town; welcomes the grant aid funding provided to the club by Football Association of Wales Grounds Improvement Ltd for developing Park Avenue so that it will be able to host UEFA competition matches; and wishes the club well for the final against reigning champions Bangor City.","date":"2009-04-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38480","proposer":"10614","edm":"1329","session":"2008-09","title":"Leicester City Fc League One Champions","text":"That this House congratulates Leicester City Football Club on winning the League One title; notes that this campaign included a club record 23 league games without defeat; further notes that this success has been achieved at the first attempt following the team's relegation from the Championship last season; commends the leadership of Chairman Milan Mandaric, Chief Executive Lee Hoos, and Manager Nigel Pearson; applauds the continuing support of the club's fans which has resulted in an average attendance of more than 19,000; and looks forward to further success in the future.","date":"2009-04-22","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38440","proposer":"11970","edm":"1302","session":"2008-09","title":"Scotland Victory In World Curling Championships","text":"That this House congratulates skip Mr David Murdoch and the Scottish Men's Curling team upon winning the World Men's Curling Championship; recognises the scale of their achievement in securing victory, having been behind against the formidable team fielded by the host nation, Canada; believes that the manner of the victory and the spirit with which it was reached has earned the team the recognition and gratitude of the whole nation; and further believes that the continuing success of the rink, which includes two players from Lockerbie, is testament to the excellent coaching provided at the Lockerbie ice rink over the years.","date":"2009-04-20","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38400","proposer":"11707","edm":"1275","session":"2008-09","title":"FA Cup Semi-Finals At Wembley","text":"That this House notes with disappointment the decision to stage the FA Cup semi-final between Everton and Manchester United at 4 p.m. on a Sunday at Wembley Stadium; further notes that the other semi-final between two London teams, Chelsea and Arsenal, is to take place on the previous day at the same venue; recognises that these decisions are dictated by television rather than for the convenience of the fans and believes that this arrangement will cause considerable unnecessary cost in terms of both time and money to supporters of both Everton and Manchester United; further notes that neutral venues at Anfield or Eastlands or Villa Park are all suitable venues worthy of holding an FA Cup semi-final between two North West Premiership teams; and, while recognising that holding semi-finals at Wembley allows more fans to attend the games, believes that using Wembley for the semi-finals takes away some of the magic of reaching the final and playing at the magnificent new Wembley stadium; and therefore calls on the Football Association to review the policy of holding semi-finals at Wembley in the future.","date":"2009-04-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38401","proposer":"11707","edm":"1276","session":"2008-09","title":"Free To View Television Coverage Of Baseball","text":"That this House welcomes the rise in popularity of baseball in the United Kingdom and wishes continuing success to the Manchester Baseball Club at Mersey Bank Fields in Didsbury, which provides a good sports facility and team environment for young and old; recognises the contribution that televised baseball has made in increasing the popularity of the sport and in particular the contribution of Jonny Gould, Josh Chetwynd and Erik Janssen; expresses disappointment at Five.TV's decision to cease showing Major League Baseball on terrestrial television; expresses concern that the rise in popularity of baseball in Britain may suffer as a result; and therefore calls on Five.TV or another free-to-view channel to show Major League Baseball on television.","date":"2009-04-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38358","proposer":"10353","edm":"1236","session":"2008-09","title":"Mark Cavendish","text":"That this House congratulates Mark Cavendish on his victory in the Milan-San Remo cycle race and on being the first British rider since Tommy Simpson in 1964 to win the race; and wishes him and all other British cyclists continuing success in international competitions in 2009.","date":"2009-03-31","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38338","proposer":"11245","edm":"1217","session":"2008-09","title":"Brawn F1 Team","text":"That this House congratulates the Brawn GP Formula 1 team on its remarkable success in the 2009 Australian Grand Prix; recognises that Brawn GP employs several hundred people in Britain in its Formula 1 team; notes the contribution that the Brawn Team makes to British sporting excellence and to promoting British engineering and technology and developing safer and more fuel-efficient systems for use by ordinary motorists; and calls on the Government to offer greater incentives to businesses to increase engineering and technology research and manufacturing.","date":"2009-03-30","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38327","proposer":"10029","edm":"1206","session":"2008-09","title":"York City Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates York City Football Club on qualifying for the FA Challenge Trophy final on 9 May 2009 and recognises that this is its first visit to the new Wembley stadium; notes that this provides an excellent opportunity for the football club to represent the city of York by showcasing its sporting talents and the good nature of the supporters; calls on the citizens of York to show their support and appreciation for the players and coaching staff; and wishes the team success in the final.","date":"2009-03-27","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38309","proposer":"10780","edm":"1189","session":"2008-09","title":"Live Television Coverage Of International Football","text":"That this House notes the controversy surrounding attempts to have a British football team entered for the Olympics in 2012; also notes Government support for such a venture; and expresses the wish that the Government will use whatever influence it has to ensure that television broadcasters, particularly national BBC and ITV, concentrate on delivering live coverage to national audiences of competitive games in World Cup and European Championship qualifying competitions involving international teams from across the UK rather than meaningless friendly games involving England.","date":"2009-03-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38303","proposer":"11245","edm":"1183","session":"2008-09","title":"Level Playing Field Campaign And Disabled Football Supporters","text":"That this House notes the benefits to disabled people of their involvement in sport and welcomes the Level Playing Field campaign organised by the National Association of Disabled Supporters; further notes that the campaign is now in its fourth year with over 80 professional football clubs taking part last year; further notes that this year's campaign will take place over the two-week period commencing 21 March 2009 and ending on 5 April, offering football clubs the opportunity to showcase their disability projects and to promote their disabled supporter facilities and services to their local communities; and congratulates those clubs which help with the campaign.","date":"2009-03-24","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38240","proposer":"10118","edm":"1128","session":"2008-09","title":"ENGLISH INSTITUTE OF SPORT'S FACILITY AT GATESHEAD STADIUM","text":"That this House expresses serious concern at the news that the English Institute of Sport facility based at Gateshead Stadium is under threat of closure; considers the provision of expert medical and physiotherapy support at this important centre of excellence as vital to the maintenance and continuing development of sporting excellence in the North East; notes that such closure would be contrary to the spirit of assurances given by Ministers that the Olympic project would enhance sporting opportunities across all regions; and calls on UK Sport and Government Ministers to act swiftly to prevent the closure of this facility in Gateshead.","date":"2009-03-19","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38182","proposer":"11798","edm":"1074","session":"2008-09","title":"Free Swimming Programme Consultation","text":"That this House notes with concern that the Free Swimming Programme was designed in closed consultation; expresses concern that there is a lack of wider consultation in devising further initiatives and policies in relation to swimming; further notes that the national governing body for swimming has a commercial advantage in being the only swimming organisation consulted by the Government; acknowledges that consultation which involves only one commercial operator in the field could be anti-competitive and does not ensure a level playing field; recommends that the Government undertakes a review to determine whether a national governing body that competes with other operators, whilst also being the main beneficiary of government funding, represents best value for money; urges the Government to take steps to ensure that national governing bodies do not misuse their position to gain an unfair competitive advantage; and calls on the Government to ensure that wider swimming stakeholders are consulted when devising future policy and to consider issuing consultation guidance to national governing bodies in sport which should be adhered to.","date":"2009-03-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38137","proposer":"10614","edm":"1039","session":"2008-09","title":"Lewis Hamilton Mbe","text":"That this House warmly congratulates Formula One Champion Lewis Hamilton on having been honoured with an MBE from Her Majesty for services to motor racing; welcomes the decision to honour the youngest ever winner of the World Championship and the first black driver in Formula 1 with this prestigious award; views this as an acknowledgement of the hard work and success that Lewis Hamilton has achieved so far in his career; recognises Lewis Hamilton as an excellent role model for young people, especially those from black, Asian and other ethnic minority communities; and looks forward to Lewis Hamilton's future success in his career.","date":"2009-03-10","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38139","proposer":"10231","edm":"1041","session":"2008-09","title":"South African Customs Charges On Free Football Equipment","text":"That this House welcomes the football coaching and educational activities undertaken over the last six years in deprived and impoverished townships in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town by British Airways, the Metropolitan Police, the Charlton Athletic Community Trust and the British High Commission working together with the South African Police and local premier soccer league teams of Ajax Cape Town, AmaZulu FC and Wits FC; recognises the financial contribution made by the British partners of around \u00c2\u00a3250,000 per year in coaching, flights, travelling and staffing costs of running these courses; but regrets the fact that the South African customs authorities are demanding that the British partners now pay nearly \u00c2\u00a327,000 in 2009 for bringing in the new kit which is used for the coaching courses and given free to the children and schools who participate in the organised programmes.","date":"2009-03-10","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38061","proposer":"13934","edm":"977","session":"2008-09","title":"Attacks On Sri Lanka Cricket Team In Pakistan","text":"That this House condemns the murderous attacks on the Sri Lanka cricket team and match officials by unknown armed gunmen in Lahore, Pakistan on 2 March 2009 that left six policemen and the driver of one of the buses in the team's convoy dead and seven players and officials injured; expresses sincere condolences to all those affected by these vicious attacks on innocent civilians; further condemns the targeting of cricket, a unifying and peaceful force in Pakistan, by the perpetrators; and calls for the Government to work with the Pakistan government to do all it can to catch and punish the perpetrators of these attacks and to devise a strategy to ensure that at some point in the future cricket can again be played in Pakistan without fear of terrorist attack.","date":"2009-03-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38037","proposer":"10614","edm":"955","session":"2008-09","title":"Freedom Of The City Of Leicester","text":"That this House congratulates Leicester City Football Club ambassador and ex-England footballer Alan Birchenall, Leicester-born author of the famous Adrian Mole books, Sue Townsend and singer with a career spanning decades who was brought up in Leicester, Engelbert Humperdinck, after the decision taken by Leicester City Council to award the trio the Honorary Freedom of the City of Leicester; recognises the excellent contribution that these three people have made to the City of Leicester over the years; and calls for the people of Leicester to join in celebration of this wonderful achievement.","date":"2009-03-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38013","proposer":"10074","edm":"934","session":"2008-09","title":"Deaflympics Games And Deaf Athletes","text":"That this House congratulates the Deaflympics as the second oldest multi-sport and cultural festival in the world, with a proud history stretching back to the first Deaflympic Games in Paris in 1924; notes the opportunity that the Games present in allowing deaf athletes the chance to participate and enjoy an Olympic experience; further notes that deaf athletes do not have the chance to participate in Paralympic Games; recognises the struggle the Great Britain Deaflympics team has faced in raising funds to support the team; further recognises that some athletes may be unable to compete at the next championships due to lack of funds; calls on the Government to support the team in any way it can, including by encouraging greater engagement through the national sporting bodies; and extends its very best wishes for the Great British team in the forthcoming Deaflympic Games in Taiwan in September 2009.","date":"2009-03-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"38025","proposer":"10367","edm":"946","session":"2008-09","title":"Sir Bobby Charlton And The Freedom Of The City Of Manchester","text":"That this House congratulates Sir Bobby Charlton on being given the Freedom of the City of Manchester; recognises that this award celebrates Sir Bobby's close links, not only with Manchester United Football Club but with the whole city of Manchester; and believes that Sir Bobby's record as footballer and role model over many years has earned him recognition and gratitude from the whole nation and way beyond.","date":"2009-03-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37960","proposer":"10329","edm":"881","session":"2008-09","title":"Low Pay In The Premier League","text":"That this House congratulates the Fair Pay Network, a coalition of trades unions and anti-poverty charities and the Institute of Public Policy Research on their campaign to secure fair pay for the large section of off-the-pitch staff working for Premier League clubs who receive low pay; notes that this initiative enjoys cross-party support, including that of the Minister for Sport and the Mayor of London; acknowledges the best practice business case presented by companies such as KPMG and Premier League sponsors Barclays, which records money-saving results for fair-paying large employers; and calls on all 20 Premier League clubs to engage positively with this initiative and with the offer of support from both the Fair Pay Network and the business community.","date":"2009-02-25","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37890","proposer":"10295","edm":"815","session":"2008-09","title":"Michael Jennings","text":"That this House pays tribute to Chorley boxer Michael Jennings for competing in the World Boxing Organisation welterweight title against Miguel Cotto at New York's Madison Square Garden on 21 February 2009; recognises that while Michael Jennings was not successful in claiming the title he put up a resilient fight against Miguel Cotto and can be proud of his efforts; notes the excellent role model Michael Jennings has become both in his home town of Chorley and further afield; and further recognises the value of role models in the sports arena in helping young people to get involved in sport at a young age.","date":"2009-02-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37913","proposer":"10525","edm":"838","session":"2008-09","title":"Andy Murray","text":"That this House congratulates Andy Murray following his victory in the World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam; notes that this win is the 10th title of his career and that he is now the world number four; recognises Andy Murray to be a superb ambassador for his sport and his nation; and applauds him for doing Scotland proud.","date":"2009-02-23","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37864","proposer":"10439","edm":"802","session":"2008-09","title":"London 2012 Olympic Games And Fairtrade","text":"That this House believes that the Fairtrade label is a respected marker indicating a just deal for producers in the developing world; notes the Olympic Games in London in 2012 present an opportunity to highlight the best of British sport and culture, while achieving a positive legacy for the development of London; further believes the Olympic Games also offer the opportunity to demonstrate Britain's global outlook and its commitment to international development; and therefore calls on all the bodies involved with the delivery of the 2012 Olympic Games to ensure that all relevant food, drink, and merchandise carries the Fairtrade label.","date":"2009-02-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37826","proposer":"13735","edm":"766","session":"2008-09","title":"Joe Calzaghe","text":"That this House congratulates Joe Calzaghe, based in Newbridge, Gwent, on his retirement from the boxing ring as the undefeated super-middleweight and light-heavyweight champion; notes with pleasure that he recorded 46 wins from 46 fights and was also voted as 2007 BBC Sports Personality of the Year; looks forward to Joe Calzaghe now dedicating his time to helping other athletes in the South East Wales Valleys and wider afield in the United Kingdom achieve their best in their chosen sport; and wishes Joe Calzaghe and his father, Enzo, Joe's former trainer, further success in their new roles in promoting charity work and in boxing promotion.","date":"2009-02-11","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37837","proposer":"10242","edm":"777","session":"2008-09","title":"Tony Mccoy","text":"That this House congratulates the thirteen-time champion National Hunt racing jockey Mr Tony McCoy on achieving his 3,000th winning ride; believes this to be one of the most outstanding achievements in the history of racing; recognises the exceptional personal courage which Mr McCoy has shown in recovering from a number of serious injuries to continue his remarkable career; believes that this reflects the courage shown by all racing jockeys and epitomises the great tradition of British sportsmanship; and wishes him and the sport of horseracing in general further success in the future.","date":"2009-02-11","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37734","proposer":"10012","edm":"683","session":"2008-09","title":"Future Of Leisure Services In Rossendale","text":"That this House is appalled that Rossendale Borough Council is considering closing a substantial number of leisure and sporting facilities in the Valley, including the swimming pools at Haslingden and Marl Pits and the Bacup Leisure Hall, which will cause enormous hardship and inconvenience to Rossendale residents, particularly the elderly, the young and the disabled; questions the attempt by Rossendale Borough Council to lay the blame for this at the door of the Rossendale Leisure Trust and to fail to consider the Trust's exciting plans for a sports village, despite the fact that external assessments have concluded that the Trust performs strongly in financial management and community delivery; notes that the council has failed to take up the Government's scheme for free swimming for the over 60s and under 16s and spends \u00c2\u00a31 per head less than the Lancashire average on sport and leisure; calls upon the Minister for Local Government to intervene to ensure that a proper consultation is carried out on the future of sporting and leisure facilities in Rossendale with a view to ensuring affordable access to all; and urges him to insist that the council co-operates with the Leisure Trust to seek a sensible way forward and, if they do not, to urgently reassess the status of the council as a Good Performing Council.","date":"2009-02-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37692","proposer":"10614","edm":"642","session":"2008-09","title":"Regeneration Of Donington Park And Leicestershire","text":"That this House warmly welcomes the news that Donington Park Motor Racing Circuit, Leicestershire is to begin a \u00c2\u00a3100 million redevelopment; recognises that this will provide extensive economic redevelopment throughout Leicestershire, creating 6,000 new jobs and leading to \u00c2\u00a360 million of new investment in the surrounding area; congratulates Simon Gillett, Chief Executive of Donington Park, on his success in getting these plans approved; and looks forward to Donington Park hosting Lewis Hamilton and the British Grand Prix in 2010.","date":"2009-02-02","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37611","proposer":"10295","edm":"577","session":"2008-09","title":"Rugby League World Cup 2013","text":"That this House welcomes the decision by the Rugby Football League to bid for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup; recognises that participation levels in rugby league are increasing both in the United Kingdom and abroad; notes the benefits of bringing the Rugby League World Cup to the UK which will help attract more people to the sport, both in terms of participation at grass roots level, as well as spectators, in addition to embracing the truly international appeal of rugby league; and calls on the Government to support the Rugby Football League in order to help ensure the bid is successful to bring the 2013 World Cup to the United Kingdom.","date":"2009-01-26","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37554","proposer":"11318","edm":"527","session":"2008-09","title":"Angling Trust","text":"That this House welcomes the establishment of the Angling Trust; urges the Government to work closely with the Angling Trust; and notes the contribution that the country's four million anglers make to the environment and to the economy.","date":"2009-01-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37555","proposer":"11318","edm":"528","session":"2008-09","title":"Commission Proposals For Recreational Sea Angling","text":"That this House expresses concern over the European Commission's proposals to include recreational sea angling catches within the national quota, introduce a licensing scheme for vessels involved with recreational sea angling and force anglers to register their catches (Article 47 of the Commission's Proposal for a Council Regulation establishing a Community control system for ensuring compliance with the rules of the Common Fisheries Policy COM(2008) 721 final); believes that these proposals will place an unfair burden on recreational sea anglers and put at risk the \u00c2\u00a31 billion and more than 20,000 jobs recreational sea angling contributes to the economy; notes that in 2008 the Government ruled out introducing a licence for sea anglers; and calls on the Government to oppose these proposals from the Commission.","date":"2009-01-21","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37485","proposer":"10298","edm":"462","session":"2008-09","title":"Neil Harris","text":"That this House congratulates Neil Harris on scoring the second Millwall goal in the team's successful FA Cup third round replay against Crewe Alexandra on 13 January 2009, thereby becoming the highest scorer ever for Millwall FC; believes that Neil deserves the widest recognition as one of the greatest of all the generations of Lions who have played for Millwall over the years since the club was founded in 1885 and moved to south London in 1910; recognises the huge credit, entertainment and quality which Neil's skill and loyalty have brought to Millwall since his first game in 1998; also pays tribute to Neil for the personal courage which he showed after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, for going public about the importance of recognising this disease, and for successfully overcoming it; and wishes him and his family all the best in the future, as his unique football contribution deserves.","date":"2009-01-14","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37414","proposer":"10521","edm":"399","session":"2008-09","title":"International Sporting Boycott Of Israel","text":"That this House recalls with approval that the civilised nations of the world showed their disapproval of the apartheid policies of South Africa through the banning of that country from international sporting events, a process which helped bring about the ending of apartheid; considers that the behaviour of Israel towards the Palestinian people is equally unacceptable; and urges international sporting bodies to adopt a policy of exclusion of Israel from competitions with immediate effect.","date":"2009-01-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37433","proposer":"10074","edm":"289A1","session":"2008-09","title":"Chris Hoy","text":"after `Scotland', insert `and the whole United Kingdom'.","date":"2009-01-12","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37344","proposer":"10089","edm":"333","session":"2008-09","title":"Blyth Spartans Fc","text":"That this House congratulates Blyth Spartans F.C. who, in the great tradition of non-league football, achieved a magnificent victory against Bournemouth F.C.; looks forward to welcoming the Premiership side Blackburn Rovers to Croft Park; and wishes Blyth Spartans well in what will be the most important game in their 100 year history.","date":"2008-12-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37360","proposer":"10208","edm":"349","session":"2008-09","title":"National Lottery Funding And The London 2012 Olympic And Paralympic Games","text":"That this House notes that the second tranche of National Lottery money diverted to the London 2012 Olympics will result in \u00c2\u00a3675 million taken from the National Lottery Good Causes between now and 2012; recognises the enormous contribution that National Lottery money makes to sport, the arts, heritage, the community and the voluntary sector; further notes that the Government's plan to repay the money taken from the National Lottery through the sale of the land after the Olympics may undermine the legacy from the Games because it does not compensate for a reduction in funding for community projects in the run-up to the Games; and calls on the Government to consider introducing a gross profits tax regime for the National Lottery which will increase prize money, the amount of money for good causes and revenue for the Exchequer.","date":"2008-12-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37370","proposer":"10383","edm":"359","session":"2008-09","title":"GB WOMEN'S FOOTBALL TEAM AT LONDON 2012 OLYMPICS","text":"That this House notes that the debate about a GB football team at the 2012 London Olympics has focussed only on the men's game, and there has been little or no discussion of a GB women's football team at the Olympics; further notes that football is now one of the most popular team sports for women and girls; regrets that women's football continues to be vastly under-funded and under-represented in the media compared with the men's game; believes that a women's GB team would raise awareness of football as a top-level female sport and encourage many more women and girls to be physically active and sustain good health through playing football; and therefore urges the Government to support a GB women's football team at 2012 and commit to fostering the growth of women's football at every level.","date":"2008-12-17","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37286","proposer":"10258","edm":"285","session":"2008-09","title":"Racehorse Breeding In The United Kingdom","text":"That this House is alarmed by evidence suggesting that many healthy but unprofitable thoroughbreds are slaughtered in British abattoirs or shot in racing yards every year; notes that the Chairman of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has acknowledged the problem of over-production of racehorses; believes that horse welfare problems flowing from racehorse over-production are likely to worsen as a result of the BHA's future fixtures list which will deny racing opportunities to hundreds of lower-rated horses; further notes that every year more than 160 horses die or are destroyed due to racecourse injuries; calls on the Government to undertake and put into the public domain a full audit of racehorse production, death and injury; and asks it to urge racing's regulators to act decisively to remedy the problems of racehorse over-production and the alarming level of equine death on British racecourses.","date":"2008-12-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37290","proposer":"11333","edm":"289","session":"2008-09","title":"Chris Hoy","text":"That this House congratulates Chris Hoy on his win as BBC Sports Personality of the Year; believes this award, following his triple gold triumph as Scotland's greatest Olympian to date, is richly deserved; and recognises Chris Hoy as an outstanding competitor and a great ambassador for Scotland on the world stage, displaying true grit and fine sportsmanship in equal measure.","date":"2008-12-15","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37263","proposer":"10682","edm":"262","session":"2008-09","title":"National Football Museum In Preston","text":"That this House recognises the major contribution that Preston has made to the development of football as the UK's national sport, that Preston North End is one of 12 founder members of the Football League dating back to 1888 and that Deepdale is the oldest professional football ground in the world; notes that Preston North End are the first ever double winners, winning both the League Championship and the FA Cup in the founding year of the Football League; and deplores remarks made by the Noble Lord Mawhinney when he stated that the National Football Museum, which hosts the crown jewels of football, should be moved from Preston to London and housed at the Wembley Stadium.","date":"2008-12-11","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37207","proposer":"10505","edm":"213","session":"2008-09","title":"Horse Racing And The BBC","text":"That this House regrets the proposals being discussed by the BBC to reduce the number of days of British horse racing it intends to cover from the present level of 27 days per year to just 13 days by 2010; notes that 10 years ago the BBC covered 79 days of horse racing each year; regrets that the new total will include just three days of national hunt racing and will include no racing coverage between the months of October and April; reminds the BBC that racing is the second biggest spectator sport in the UK; and therefore calls on the BBC, as a major sporting channel, to ensure that racing fans continue to see a significant amount of racing on BBC channels.","date":"2008-12-09","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37145","proposer":"10614","edm":"153","session":"2008-09","title":"England Cricket Team And Test Series In India","text":"That this House welcomes and applauds the decision of the England cricket team to return to India for the Test series; considers that this will further strengthen the sporting links and the bonds of friendship between the UK and India; and wishes both teams the best of luck for what will be an excellent sporting occasion.","date":"2008-12-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37151","proposer":"11427","edm":"159","session":"2008-09","title":"Sport And The Kurdistan Regional Government","text":"That this House warmly welcomes the international sports conference organised by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in collaboration with the Sports Council for Wales on 9 and 10 December 2008 at the Welsh Institute of Sport in Cardiff, with the participation of Mr Taha Barwary, the KRG Minister of Sports and Youth to discuss how to develop enduring frameworks to encourage sporting activity and excellence in devolved regions; endorses the comment of KRG High Representative to the UK, Ms Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman that `sport can bring communities together and improve people's quality of life'; and further welcomes KRG's investment in new sports facilities and infrastructure across Iraqi Kurdistan and its aim of increasing public involvement in other sports popular in the region such as football, volleyball, table tennis, taikwondo, judo and karate as well as encouraging women's participation in sport.","date":"2008-12-08","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37106","proposer":"11589","edm":"114","session":"2008-09","title":"Funding For The Special Olympics","text":"That this House recognises the huge contribution of the Special Olympics movement in transforming the lives of intellectually disabled athletes by providing year-round sports training and athletic competitions through which they can nurture and develop their athletic abilities; notes that providing these services at local, national and international levels requires significant funding; further notes that Special Olympics Europe Eurasia is seeking financial assistance from the European Commission to fund the European Special Olympic Summer Games in Warsaw in 2010 and the World Special Olympics Summer Games in Athens in 2011; acknowledges the many opportunities and benefits for athletes, families and the wider community that will result from these events taking place in the EU; further acknowledges the reciprocal benefits to the European Commission in terms of delivering on its priorities for volunteering development, social inclusion, integration and equal opportunities; and therefore urges the Government to fully support Special Olympics Europe Eurasia in these events by doing all it can to ensure that appropriate funding is provided by the European Commission.","date":"2008-12-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37131","proposer":"10062","edm":"140","session":"2008-09","title":"Lacrosse","text":"That this House notes that lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports both in England and internationally and is played by children, men and women from a variety of backgrounds; congratulates the England Men's under-19 lacrosse squad which took part in the World Championships in British Columbia in July 2008; further notes that, although lacrosse benefits from Sport England funding for development, it receives no funding for its elite athletes who compete in England's international squads; regrets that the families of young England players were required to cover the considerable costs of training and competing on behalf of England and that the cost of competing in the World Championships was around 175,000; and calls on the Government to ensure a fair allocation of resources in order to address the lack of funding for international lacrosse squads which could result in the loss of promising England players who can no longer afford to pay to compete.","date":"2008-12-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37132","proposer":"10305","edm":"141","session":"2008-09","title":"FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION'S RESPECT AGENDA AND VIOLENT CONDUCT","text":"That this House views with astonishment the decision by the Football Association to take no further action against the Sheffield United player Chris Morgan following an incident during Barnsley's match against Sheffield United on 8 November 2008 which resulted in the admission of Barnsley player Iain Hume to a hospital intensive care unit suffering from a fractured skull and bleeding to the brain; and calls on the Football Association to review this decision and either to take action against what can only be described as violent conduct or to abandon once and for all its so-called Respect Agenda in view of the lack of protection given to Iain Hume and the complete failure of football's governing body to deal properly with this issue.","date":"2008-12-04","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37055","proposer":"10527","edm":"63","session":"2008-09","title":"Involvement Of A Great Britain Soccer Team At The London 2012 Olympic Games","text":"That this House notes with concern that the issue of a British football team for the 2012 Olympics has not yet been resolved; further notes that the Home Nations' tournament would be a popular resolution to this problem, and that the use of such a tournament has a precedent in determining qualifiers for both world cups and European championships; and calls on the Government to liaise with the respective football associations in bringing forward such a solution.","date":"2008-12-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37076","proposer":"10780","edm":"84","session":"2008-09","title":"Football In The UK","text":"That this House recognises the massive disparities in wealth which exist within professional football in the United Kingdom; is deeply concerned at the continuing commercial interest in and speculation from a number of billionaires about a number of the top clubs; is deeply concerned about the obscene salaries currently being paid to some of those at the very top of their playing career; and expresses the hope that the range of supporters' trusts and the establishment of Supporters Direct will bring forward the day when football is supported, followed and run by those fans and local business people with a genuine interest in promoting football.","date":"2008-12-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"37093","proposer":"10057","edm":"103","session":"2008-09","title":"Canoeing","text":"That this House notes the millions of people of all ages and stages who can enjoy canoeing, contributing to appreciation and pollution-free use of inland water and coastal waters; and calls on the Government to ensure that the interests of canoeists are considered fully when making policy.","date":"2008-12-03","status":"o"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36975","proposer":"11589","edm":"2551","session":"2007-08","title":"Funding For The Special Olympics","text":"That this House recognises the huge contribution of the Special Olympics movement in transforming the lives of intellectually disabled athletes by providing year-round sports training and athletic competitions through which they can nurture and develop their athletic abilities; notes that providing these services at local, national and international levels requires significant funding; further notes that Special Olympics Europe Eurasia is seeking financial assistance from the European Commission to fund the European Special Olympic Summer Games in Warsaw in 2010 and the World Special Olympic Summer Games in Athens in 2011; acknowledges the many opportunities and benefits for athletes, families and the wider community that will result from these events taking place in the EU; further acknowledges the reciprocal benefits to the European Commission in terms of delivering on its priorities for volunteering development, social inclusion, integration and equal opportunities; and therefore urges the Government to fully support Special Olympics Europe and Eurasia in these events by doing all it can to ensure that appropriate funding is provided by the European Commission.","date":"2008-11-24","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36951","proposer":"10614","edm":"2534","session":"2007-08","title":"Lewis Hamilton Stamps And The Royal Mail","text":"That this House welcomes the suggestion that the Royal Mail is planning to honour Lewis Hamilton's Formula One victory with a commemorative set of stamps; believes that the stamps will be an excellent way for the country to show its collective support for our world class sportsmen and women; congratulates Lewis Hamilton on an inspirational year; and sincerely hopes that his achievements will be recognised by a great British institution such as the Royal Mail.","date":"2008-11-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36952","proposer":"11489","edm":"2535","session":"2007-08","title":"Schoolchildren For Children","text":"That this House congratulates the work of the charity Schoolchildren for Children which both assists with the development of extra-curricular sporting activities at schools in the UK and provides books and other school equipment in some of the poorest countries in the world; recognises the importance of children having access to sporting activities outside of school hours; notes the recent success of athletes from across the UK at the Olympics which has created an even stronger interest in children wanting to take up sport; and wishes the charity well in its dual role of supporting sporting activity for UK children and improving the provision of education in the developing world.","date":"2008-11-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36941","proposer":"10780","edm":"2511A1","session":"2007-08","title":"Involvement Of A Gb Soccer Team At The London 2012 Olympic Games","text":"at end insert `, of which Northern Ireland are the current champions,'.","date":"2008-11-18","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36921","proposer":"10208","edm":"2506","session":"2007-08","title":"National Lottery Funding And The London 2012 Olympic And Paralympic Games","text":"That this House notes that the second tranche of National Lottery money diverted to the London 2012 Olympics will result in \u00c2\u00a3675 million taken from the National Lottery Good Causes between now and 2012; recognises the enormous contribution that National Lottery money makes to sport, the arts, heritage, the community and the voluntary sector; further notes that the Government's plan to repay the money taken from the National Lottery through the sale of the land after the Olympics may undermine the legacy from the Games because it does not compensate for a reduction in funding for community projects in the run-up to the Games; and calls on the Government to consider introducing a gross profits tax regime for the National Lottery which will increase prize money, the amount of money for good causes and revenue for the Exchequer.","date":"2008-11-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36926","proposer":"10527","edm":"2511","session":"2007-08","title":"Involvement Of A Gb Soccer Team At The London 2012 Olympic Games","text":"That this House notes with concern that the issue of a British football team for the 2012 Olympics has not yet been resolved; further notes that the Home Nations' tournament would be a popular resolution to this problem, and that the use of such a tournament has a precedent in determining qualifiers for both world cups and European championships; and calls on the Government to liaise with the respective football associations in bringing forward such a solution.","date":"2008-11-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36914","proposer":"11333","edm":"2496A1","session":"2007-08","title":"UK Olympic Football Team","text":"leave out `welcomes' and insert `notes'.","date":"2008-11-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36915","proposer":"11333","edm":"2496A2","session":"2007-08","title":"UK Olympic Football Team","text":"leave out from `FIFA' to end and add `concerning a 2012 Olympics UK football team; but remains very concerned about the proposals for a 2012 Olympics football team; believes that any such plans could threaten the independence of the Scottish football team; supports the Scottish Football Association (SFA), the Tartan Army and the vast majority of Scotland fans in opposing a GB team; notes that any assurance from FIFA will not be worth the paper it is written on when other footballing nations concerned about the home nations' separate arrangements will look upon a GB team as a precedent; believes that nothing must be done to threaten Scotland's international football team; and calls upon the Prime Minister, the Secretary of State for Scotland and hon. Members representing Scottish constituencies to support the SFA and the Tartan Army in resisting a GB team.'.","date":"2008-11-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36903","proposer":"11221","edm":"2496","session":"2007-08","title":"UK Olympic Football Team","text":"That this House welcomes the assurances given by FIFA that a 2012 Olympics UK football team would not undermine any of the home countries' ability to compete in their own right in future events; and further notes that football should not be any different from other competing sports and our young talent should be allowed to show their skills on the world stage.","date":"2008-11-12","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36856","proposer":"10600","edm":"2452","session":"2007-08","title":"Joe Calzaghe","text":"That this House warmly congratulates Joe Calzaghe on his win at Madison Square Garden; values his role as a true sporting ambassador for Wales and Britain over the past 11 years; salutes his achievement of remaining unbeaten over 46 fights; and recognises the personal contribution of his father and trainer Enzo Calzaghe.","date":"2008-11-10","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36860","proposer":"11221","edm":"2456","session":"2007-08","title":"Sir Alex Ferguson","text":"That this House recognises that 15th November 2008 will mark Sir Alex Ferguson's 50th year of involvement in British football; further recognises his many achievements; and wishes him every success for the future.","date":"2008-11-10","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36825","proposer":"10587","edm":"2396A2","session":"2007-08","title":"Lewis Hamilton Formula One World Champion","text":"at end add `further celebrates the British engineering expertise which enabled him to have a world beating car; and hopes this triumph will stimulate young people to strive to become engineers.'.","date":"2008-11-05","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36788","proposer":"10614","edm":"2396","session":"2007-08","title":"Lewis Hamilton Formula One World Champion","text":"That this House congratulates Lewis Hamilton on winning the Formula One World Championship in only his second year in the top flight of motor sport; recognises his remarkable achievement of being the youngest driver ever to do so and becoming the first British champion since 1996; considers that his entire career to date shows him to be an excellent role model and inspiration for all young people to aspire to; also congratulates Ron Dennis and the McLaren-Mercedes team for the faith and dedication they have shown him over the years; acknowledges the important role played by his father Anthony and the rest of his family; and anticipates him winning the World Championship for Britain in future seasons to come.","date":"2008-11-03","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36796","proposer":"10009","edm":"2404","session":"2007-08","title":"Formula One Champion Lewis Hamilton","text":"That this House warmly congratulates Lewis Hamilton on becoming Formula One Champion; notes that he thoroughly deserves his success, given the level of dedication he has displayed over many years; but deplores the continual carping that his performances have attracted, including the extremely poor and biased television commentary that accompanied his final race in Brazil.","date":"2008-11-03","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36801","proposer":"10521","edm":"2396A1","session":"2007-08","title":"Lewis Hamilton Formula One World Champion","text":"at end add `; but regrets that his patriotism to the country which nurtured him, and made his success possible, is to live abroad as a tax exile.'.","date":"2008-11-03","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36671","proposer":"11093","edm":"2303","session":"2007-08","title":"Football Against Racism In Europe (Fare) Anti-Racism Week","text":"That this House notes the Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) anti-racism week celebrates 15 years of Kick Racism Out of Football campaigns; sees the need for more progress across the board but particularly to combat anti-Semitism and Islamophobia in football; welcomes local projects like Game On that are being launched as part of the 2008 FARE anti-racism week; commends the creation of the FA Working Group on anti-Semitism and Islamophobia in Football; recognises the best practice that has taken place in UEFA; and congratulates the leadership of FARE, Kick it Out and other national affiliates for their excellent anti-racism campaigns.","date":"2008-10-21","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36676","proposer":"10339","edm":"2308","session":"2007-08","title":"Royal Bank Of Scotland And Liverpool Fc","text":"That this House notes the Government's 60 per cent. stake in the Royal Bank of Scotland; further notes that the Royal Bank of Scotland provides a credit facility for the American ownership of Liverpool FC; is aware that the American owners have failed to deliver a new stadium for Liverpool FC, thereby delaying indefinitely the regeneration of one of the most needy areas of the country; and therefore calls upon the Government to ensure that the Royal Bank of Scotland does not renew that credit facility at the end of its current term.","date":"2008-10-21","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36685","proposer":"12004","edm":"2317","session":"2007-08","title":"Technology And Football Refereeing","text":"That this House believes that football, the richest sport in the world, should no longer play King Canute in respect of modern technology and that officials should utilise the benefits of television replay if the ball has gone out of play providing the opportunity to review a decision over which questions have been posed; and deplores the continued blind eye to reality which leaves the referee and assistants, who should be the most informed figures on the field, frequently the least informed and denies fans and spectators the truth and real fairness and judgment assisted by all reasonable means.","date":"2008-10-21","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36652","proposer":"11672","edm":"2284","session":"2007-08","title":"Rugby League World Cup","text":"That this House eagerly anticipates the forthcoming Rugby League World Cup in Australia, beginning with the first match between England and Papua New Guinea on 25th October and ending in the final match at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on 22nd November; looks forward to a great contest and wishes England, Scotland and Ireland every success in the competition; hopes that fans from across Great Britain and Ireland will get behind the competing nations; and notes that the tournament will be watched in more than one hundred countries around the world.","date":"2008-10-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36634","proposer":"11974","edm":"2267","session":"2007-08","title":"Death Of Eddie Thompson","text":"That this House celebrates the life of Eddie Thompson, Chairman of Dundee United football club; recognises the major contribution he made to Scottish football and the city of Dundee; notes that he was a highly respected man who will be sadly missed by all football supporters; and passes on its condolences to his family Cath, Justine and Stephen.","date":"2008-10-16","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36579","proposer":"10222","edm":"2231","session":"2007-08","title":"British Cycling And Cycle Racing On Highways Regulations","text":"That this House congratulates all involved in the organisation British Cycling for the outstanding success of British competitors in the summer Olympics and acknowledges the remarkable work of volunteers in building up the standards of competitive cycling in Britain; notes the challenges currently faced by the organisers of cycle events on the highway; believes that properly accredited volunteers associated with reputable cycling organisations should be permitted to act as stewards for such events and that there should be consistency in charging by police forces for services in connection with cycling races; and therefore calls upon the Government to update the Cycle Racing on the Highways Regulations, amend the Police Reform Act 2002 and encourage a UK-wide agreement between British Cycling and the Association of Chief Police Officers in order to create a positive environment for the promotion of cycling events in the UK.","date":"2008-10-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36563","proposer":"11715","edm":"2214","session":"2007-08","title":"2010 WOMEN'S RUGBY WORLD CUP","text":"That this House congratulates the Rugby Football Union for Women on securing the right to host the 2010 Women's Rugby World Cup in London; notes the growing popularity of the women's game at grassroots level with over 20,000 players and 480 clubs in England; and sees the award of the Women's Rugby World Cup as a fitting tribute to the growing popularity of the sport in the UK.","date":"2008-10-09","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36550","proposer":"10157","edm":"2200","session":"2007-08","title":"Glasgow Rangers And Unicef","text":"That this House congratulates Glasgow Rangers Football Club on establishing a partnership with UNICEF which will see the Rangers Charity Foundation raising \u00c2\u00a3300,000 by 2011 to fund a UNICEF education programme in India called Reducing the Gender Gap: Quality Education for Girls, which will focus on improving the quality of children's education and working to ensure that all children, especially girls and those from disadvantaged or socially excluded backgrounds, have access to schools in the Indian states of Assam, West Bengal, Orissa, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajastan, Gujurat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala; further notes that the five other football clubs which have a partnership with UNICEF are Manchester United, Barcelona, Boca Juniors, Feyenoord and AC Milan; and welcomes this example of a great Scottish institution looking beyond its own midden to help the less fortunate elsewhere in the world.","date":"2008-10-08","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36525","proposer":"11672","edm":"2174","session":"2007-08","title":"Leeds Rhinos Super League And World Club Challenge Champions","text":"That this House congratulates Leeds Rhinos on their second successive Super League Championship after a thrilling match, and on becoming the only major team in Leeds in any sport to win back to back championships; further congratulates the Rhinos on being the first Rugby League club ever to win the World Club Challenge and the Super League Grand Final in one season; and hopes that the Rhinos will continue to build upon this success in the future.","date":"2008-10-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36528","proposer":"10077","edm":"2177","session":"2007-08","title":"2008 Super League Grand Final","text":"That this House congratulates Leeds Rhinos on retaining the Super League Championship and St Helens for their contribution to a magnificent game in front of 68,000 fans which showed rugby league at its best; notes that eight of the Rhinos team are Leeds-born and a further three players have progressed through the club's junior system, including Kevin Sinfield, the outstanding Rhinos' captain; further notes the continued growth of rugby league at a grassroots level throughout the country; and calls on Sport England to reclassify rugby league as a Class A sport.","date":"2008-10-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36496","proposer":"11333","edm":"2145","session":"2007-08","title":"Chris Hoy","text":"That this House congratulates and celebrates Chris Hoy on his sensational Olympic gold medal tally; notes that Chris Hoy's triple gold triumph secures his place as Scotland's greatest Olympian to date; and believes that the cyclist's inspirational success and hard work should be officially recognised with a knighthood.","date":"2008-10-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36501","proposer":"11672","edm":"2151","session":"2007-08","title":"Leeds Metropolitan University And UK Centre For Coaching Excellence","text":"That this House congratulates Leeds Metropolitan University on being selected to host the UK Centre for Coaching Excellence in sport and disability sport, a superb achievement; congratulates all staff and students involved with making this happen; recognises the important role that this centre will play in developing the athletes and sporting stars of the future and helping the UK to build upon the country's tremendous recent Olympic successes; and believes that we can look forward to growing optimism to the London Olympics and beyond as a result of such provision.","date":"2008-10-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36506","proposer":"11170","edm":"2156","session":"2007-08","title":"Ryan Jones And Shane Williams","text":"That this House recognises the excellent contribution of Ryan Jones as Welsh rugby captain and Shane Williams in being short-listed for the World IRB Player of the Year Award; and wishes both players the best of luck and notes the accolade is a fitting tribute to the fine performances they have contributed at both regional and international level.","date":"2008-10-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36455","proposer":"10203","edm":"2108","session":"2007-08","title":"British Baseball Centenary","text":"That this House congratulates the Welsh and English baseball unions on the centenary match between the countries played on 19th July 2008 in Cardiff; applauds the fine display of the distinctive code of British baseball which has been played in Newport, Liverpool and Cardiff by hundreds of teams since the nineteenth century; welcomes the new developments in youth baseball in all three cities; and looks forward to a further exciting match on 3rd August when the England youth team play Wales in Liverpool.","date":"2008-07-21","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36436","proposer":"10223","edm":"2089","session":"2007-08","title":"SWIMMING TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION","text":"That this House congratulates the Swimming Teachers' Association (STA) on its record of over 75 years saving lives by the teaching of swimming, lifesaving and survival techniques; notes that as a registered charity which receives no Government funding, the Association still trains over 35,000 swimming teachers worldwide, lifeguards and lifesavers, first aiders and pool plant operatives each year, confirming its position as a key stakeholder; observes that the Association also promotes, assesses and recognises the swimming skills of children and adults, both able bodied and disabled, through the award of almost One Million Learn to Swim badges each year; records that STA courses and examinations are now used in 25 countries worldwide; and welcomes the major contribution made by the Association to public safety standards, swimming training, the provision of water safety knowledge, reducing death by drowning and improved public health.","date":"2008-07-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36439","proposer":"10258","edm":"2092","session":"2007-08","title":"TAIWAN'S NAME IN THE BEIJING OLYMPICS","text":"That this House calls for the Chinese government to use the established and recognised name of Taiwan (in Chinese translation `Chinese Taipei') for the Beijing Olympics; regrets that the Chinese government tries to manipulate the name of that country's sports teams to bring up the political issues of Chinese-Taiwanese relations; stresses that the name `Chinese Taipei' was agreed upon by the Olympic committees of both Taiwan and China in 1989; and opposes the Chinese intention to name Taiwan as `Taipei, China', which presents Taiwan as a part of China and violates the 1989 agreement.","date":"2008-07-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36409","proposer":"10440","edm":"2068","session":"2007-08","title":"Luton Town Football Club","text":"That this House is appalled at the decision of the Football Association to deduct a further 20 points from Luton Town FC, inflicting a crushing deficit of 30 points at the start of the Club's next season in Division 2; believes that this punishment is grossly disproportionate and massively unfair to the Town's many loyal fans who are entirely innocent of any wrongdoing; and therefore calls on the Football Association to reconsider its decision and restore the 20 points, recognising that the Club would still begin the next season with a heavy 10 point deficit.","date":"2008-07-16","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36415","proposer":"10619","edm":"2074","session":"2007-08","title":"Impact Of The London Olympics On Lottery Funding To The Regions","text":"That this House notes that \u00c2\u00a32.175 billion of National Lottery funding is to be diverted to the 2012 London Olympic Games; recognises the enormous contribution that Lottery funding makes to rebuilding local communities and restoring confidence in some of the United Kingdom's most vulnerable communities; welcomes the report by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee on 23rd April entitled London 2012 Games: the next lap; further notes that recent falls in land and property values may jeopardise the \u00c2\u00a31.8 billion expected to be raised by land sales after the Games; is concerned about the effect this may have upon future non-Olympic Lottery funding; and calls upon the Government to revisit the Memorandum of Understanding with the London Development Agency to ensure that the National Lottery Distribution Fund is reimbursed in full following the completion of the Games.","date":"2008-07-16","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36383","proposer":"10208","edm":"2041","session":"2007-08","title":"Beijing Olympic And Paralympic Games","text":"That this House sends its very best wishes to all members of the British Olympic and Paralympic teams ahead of the forthcoming Games in Beijing.","date":"2008-07-15","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36317","proposer":"11480","edm":"1985","session":"2007-08","title":"Sharing The Benefits Of The Olympics","text":"That this House warmly welcomes the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games; believes that the financial benefits of the Games should be shared across the whole of the UK; is concerned that a disproportionately low number of private contracts have been awarded by the Olympic Development Agency to companies based outside London and the South East; notes that over \u00c2\u00a32 billion out of the \u00c2\u00a36 billion worth of private contracts have already been awarded; recommends that all businesses look at the 2012 website for potential opportunities; and urges the bodies responsible for awarding Olympic contracts to do everything possible to ensure a more equitable sharing across all the nations and regions of the UK.","date":"2008-07-08","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36326","proposer":"11970","edm":"1995","session":"2007-08","title":"Annan Athletic Fc","text":"That this House congratulates the Chairman, Committee and all those associated with Annan Athletic Football Club on putting together a compelling bid and securing the club's election to the Scottish Football League; recognises that this election is widely welcomed in the local community and will provide a major boost to the area; and wishes the team well in the forthcoming season.","date":"2008-07-08","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36299","proposer":"10614","edm":"1975","session":"2007-08","title":"British Grand Prix At Donington","text":"That this House warmly welcomes the move of the British Grand Prix from Silverstone to Donington in Leicestershire from 2010; notes that Donington is already a world class venue for both drivers and fans; further notes that development plans for the track will transform it into a thoroughly modern Formula One circuit; highlights that the Donington track has a history with Formula One that dates back further than Silverstone, with the competition first held there in 1935; and calls attention to its excellent location in the centre of the country with good transport links to motorways and East Midlands Airport.","date":"2008-07-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36300","proposer":"10614","edm":"1976","session":"2007-08","title":"Lewis Hamilton And British Grand Prix","text":"That this House congratulates Lewis Hamilton for winning the Formula One British Grand Prix at Silverstone on 6th July; believes that his stupendous drive to victory should serve as an inspiration to a young generation who need positive role models; congratulates the achievement of the McLaren Mercedes team; commends Anthony Hamilton's dedication to his son's career and training; and further congratulates Lewis Hamilton on receiving the Global Diversity Award 2008.","date":"2008-07-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36268","proposer":"10328","edm":"1945","session":"2007-08","title":"Gift Aid And Junior Subscriptions To Community Amateur Sports Clubs","text":"That this House welcomes the fact that 4,797 clubs have registered under the Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) scheme, generating more than \u00c2\u00a341 million for community sport since 2002; recognises the key role that community sport can play in ensuring a legacy of increased participation from the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games; further recognises that increasing participation in sport will contribute towards improving health, education, social inclusion and community cohesion; notes however that the CASC scheme is currently of most benefit to premises-owning clubs; and calls on the Government to further increase support for community sport by extending Gift Aid to junior membership fees in order that all community sports clubs can benefit from the CASC scheme and extend participation opportunities.","date":"2008-07-02","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36240","proposer":"10521","edm":"1918","session":"2007-08","title":"John Motson","text":"That this House pays tribute to BBC football commentator John Motson after a career of 37 years reporting; notes with acclaim his professionalism and deep statistical knowledge of clubs and players; congratulates him for his trademark superlative live commentary on the televised European Championship 2008 Final on Sunday 29th June; wishes him a well-deserved retirement; and trusts that there may be opportunities for him to be afforded occasional cameo further appearances to remind audiences of the special qualities which made him a much admired great British institution.","date":"2008-06-30","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36197","proposer":"10614","edm":"1879","session":"2007-08","title":"Paul Ince And Blackburn Rovers","text":"That this House congratulates Paul Ince upon his appointment as manager of Blackburn Rovers Football Club; recognises the historic significance of the appointment of the first British black manager of a Premiership football team; commends the decision of John Williams and Blackburn Rovers; believes that this appointment is a clear sign of the commendable multiculturalism within the Football Association; and hopes that this appointment will provide inspiration to the Premier League's numerous other talented black players and will indicate to club chairmen across top flight leagues that they too should look closely at up and coming ethnic minority managerial talent.","date":"2008-06-24","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36160","proposer":"11742","edm":"1851","session":"2007-08","title":"Walter Tull","text":"That this House remembers Walter Tull for his contribution to British sport as a professional footballer for Tottenham Hotspur and Northampton Town football clubs; expresses its sincere gratitude for his lesser-known role as a soldier who fought in the 17th Middlesex Regiment during the First World War; notes that he was accepted for Officer Training and appointed to a Commission in the Special Reserve of Officers in 1917; remembers that he sadly lost his life as an officer of the 23rd Middlesex regiment in 1918; notes that his Commanding Officer mentioned him in despatches for his `gallantry and coolness' on the Italian Front and recommended him for a Military Cross; regrets that he was not awarded the Cross because, as a British citizen of non-European descent, he should not have been commissioned at all; and calls upon the Government to right this sizeable injustice by posthumously awarding him the Military Cross for his gallantry.","date":"2008-06-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36161","proposer":"11783","edm":"1852","session":"2007-08","title":"Shakespeare And The London 2012 Olympics","text":"That this House applauds and supports continuing plans within the arts community first put forward by Equity to instigate a nationwide Great British Shakespeare Event to coincide with the Olympics in 2012; acknowledges the proud tradition of the Olympic Games in ancient Athens to combine sport with the great dramas of Sophocles, Euripides and Aeschylus; recognises the unprecedented cultural opportunity of reviving and honouring that tradition in Britain across all ages, faiths, cultures and social groups by celebrating the works of the man widely acknowledged to be our greatest playwright; recognises the tremendous boost this would give not only to the arts community but also to tourism; and calls on the Government to support, encourage and promote grass-roots plans to take forward this celebration.","date":"2008-06-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36090","proposer":"10383","edm":"1786","session":"2007-08","title":"Hillingdon School Of Gymnastics -\u0000 Swallows","text":"That this House notes that the Hillingdon School of Gymnastics (Swallows Gym), has been nominated as a London 2012 pre-games training venue; further notes that the gym is recognised as a British Gymnastics High Performance Centre and a London Gymnastics Federation Centre of Excellence; recognises that as well as achieving GymMark and ClubMark status and providing gymnastic-based activities for a healthy lifestyle to over 2,000 people a week from the boroughs of Hillingdon, Harrow, Ealing and other parts of West London and the Home Counties, for over 30 years the Swallows Gym offers parent and toddler sessions, pre-school gymnastics for under five year olds and general gym classes with a gymnastics for all policy as well as adult gym classes; and calls on the London Borough of Hillingdon to enter negotiations with the school to ensure the continued future of the gym.","date":"2008-06-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36019","proposer":"10177","edm":"1733","session":"2007-08","title":"Retirement Of Alistair Hignell","text":"That this House notes the retirement of Alistair Hignell as BBC Rugby Correspondent from Radio 5 Live, highlighted by the fulsome praise given him by Lawrence Dallaglio at his own retirement from rugby; celebrates his achievements in this role over many years; remembers his success as an England international and his many years playing for Bristol at rugby and Gloucestershire at cricket following his double blue at Cambridge University; and wishes him every success in his continuing battle against multiple sclerosis.","date":"2008-06-10","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36006","proposer":"10129","edm":"1720","session":"2007-08","title":"Bisley And The Olympic Games 2012","text":"That this House notes with interest the reports in the Evening Standard of 5th June alleging the planned reshuffle of venues of four sporting disciplines of the forthcoming London Olympics so as to slash costs, ease crowd flows and avoid creating expensive white elephants after 2012; assumes there must be some degree of validity however small in these assertions if the Standard chooses to headline them; accepting that possibility, commends the Olympic planners for adopting, even if somewhat belatedly, a more prudent and measured assessment of the task ahead; seeks to help in advising the transfer of all shooting disciplines from Woolwich Barracks, where it is estimated the cost of preparation will exceed \u00c2\u00a320 million with a further \u00c2\u00a38 million required for post-games dismantling, to Bisley, a shooting venue which has maintained a good relationship with the local community since it was first founded in the late 19th century; to facilitate this move suggests for the period of the Games the reintroduction as a dedicated shuttle from Waterloo to Brookwood of a service once known as the Bisley Bullet, which could deliver competitors, officials and supporters to the field in less than 20 minutes; and maintains that the adoption of such common sense would reduce financial outlay instantly, ease crowd flow in the city certainly and bequeath a legacy of an enhanced and improved facility that will have stood the UK in good stead for more than 120 years.","date":"2008-06-09","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"36002","proposer":"10258","edm":"1716","session":"2007-08","title":"Portsmouth Football Club, FA Cup Winners 2008","text":"That this House congratulates everyone associated with Portsmouth Football Club for their magnificent achievement in winning the 2008 FA Cup; offers its full support to the campaign being run by The News, in Portsmouth, for manager Harry Redknapp to be knighted in recognition not only of leading the team to Cup success, but for his services to football and charity generally; and calls on the Government to add its support for this honour to be bestowed.","date":"2008-06-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35992","proposer":"10208","edm":"1706","session":"2007-08","title":"Playing Fields","text":"That this House recognises the importance of access to playing fields in helping to tackle rising levels of obesity, strengthen communities and cut crime; notes with concern that the nation's playing fields are still being sold off at an alarming rate; further notes that, every nine days, plans to build over a playing field are accepted even though Sport England warns that this will have a negative impact on local sporting provision; condemns the continued sell-off of smaller playing fields, the size of half a football pitch, at a rate of almost one a day, despite the Government's promise made in 2002 to introduce protection for them; is deeply concerned that there is currently a loophole in the law that allows landowners to deliberately prevent people using a playing field for five years and then sell it off without proper consultation; and, consequently, calls on the Government to close this loophole and honour its promise to give smaller fields the same protection as larger ones to ensure that the UK's playing fields are protected for generations to come.","date":"2008-06-05","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35959","proposer":"11420","edm":"1675","session":"2007-08","title":"Pfi Charges For Use Of School Changing Rooms","text":"That this House notes that charges for additional services levied by companies managing schools under private finance initiative contracts are not constrained either by the market or contractually; further notes that this leads to charges of over \u00c2\u00a3100 per hour for access to a changing room on Saturdays; recognises that this excessive cost prevents children from participating in additional sport on Saturdays; and calls for the Government to review its policies from this perspective.","date":"2008-06-03","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35941","proposer":"11921","edm":"1659","session":"2007-08","title":"Pigeon Racing","text":"That this House recognises the popularity of pigeon racing as a hobby across the country; notes that tens of thousands of people actively enjoy the sport in the UK, with the Royal Pigeon Racing Association alone having 37,000 members; further notes that thousands of jobs are dependent on the sport throughout the country and that enthusiasts raise very significant sums for a wide number of charities every year; is concerned that restrictions placed on pigeon racing during avian flu outbreaks both at home and abroad have a devastating effect upon the sport and its associated industries; welcomes the announcement of a new veterinary risk assessment by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) into pigeon racing and avian flu; and hopes that DEFRA may be able to reconsider some of the more disproportionate regulations currently in place on pigeon racing during avian flu outbreaks.","date":"2008-06-02","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35910","proposer":"10968","edm":"1629","session":"2007-08","title":"Staveley Leisure Centre","text":"That this House congratulates Liberal Democrat-run Chesterfield Borough Council on building, to budget and to schedule, a state of the art \u00c2\u00a38 million Healthy Living Centre in Staveley, one of the poorest areas of Chesterfield, to replace the old, crumbling and dangerous leisure centre which had to be closed due to mining subsidence and which the previous Labour-run council had failed for seven years to raise the money to replace; notes that the Government and Sports England failed to provide a single penny towards the new centre which had to be entirely funded by Chesterfield Borough Council; and futher notes with regret that the Government's Olympic smash and grab raid on Sports England means that every constituency in the country will lose close to \u00c2\u00a31 million that should be going into grass roots sporting activity.","date":"2008-05-21","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35878","proposer":"11607","edm":"1600","session":"2007-08","title":"Halifax Town Fc","text":"That this House notes with sadness that Halifax Town Football Club has all but folded as a professional club after 97 years in existence; pays tribute to those who have loyally supported the club over the years; further notes that the football club has left fans with some cherished memories including a surprising 1980 FA Cup Third Round victory over First Division Manchester City, the 1993 FA Cup First Round win over West Bromwich Albion, and the magnificent Conference Championship winning season in 1998 where the club regained its league status; acknowledges that off the field problems have led to the club amounting a considerable debt; states that there is far too much money at the top end of football and due to the lack of redistribution to lower league clubs, many more teams could fold before the authorities do something to address the situation; thanks everyone associated with the club for doing their best to try and salvage the situation over the last few weeks; and further pays tribute to the work of the loyal fans associated with Halifax Town Supporters Trust and wishes them every success in their attempt to resurrect the football club and keep the Halifax Town name alive by re-forming and joining a lower league in time for the 2008-09 season.","date":"2008-05-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35881","proposer":"12016","edm":"1603","session":"2007-08","title":"Stockport County And Rochdale Fc","text":"That this House salutes the achievement of both Stockport County and Rochdale FC in qualifying for the League Two play-off final at Wembley; recognises the tremendous turnaround in fortunes since the arrival of the teams' respective managers, Jim Gannon and Keith Hill; congratulates the players and fans of both teams for their sporting behaviour throughout the season; believes these clubs embody all that is best about English football; and wishes both clubs well at Wembley.","date":"2008-05-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35888","proposer":"10242","edm":"1610","session":"2007-08","title":"Integrity In British Horseracing","text":"That this House notes the publication of the independent review into Integrity in Racing by Dame Elizabeth Neville; welcomes its conclusion that the approach adopted on integrity by the British Horseracing Authority is a model for the effective investigation of corruption in sport; endorses the report's view that the Gambling Commission has a key role to play in supporting racing and tackling corruption; calls on it to build on the Neville report's recommendation that racing and the Commission adopt a collaborative approach to investigating integrity concerns; believes that addressing integrity is vital for the future of racing; commends the British Horseracing Authority for its confirmation that it will continue to give the highest priority to this issue; and welcomes the support the British Horseracing Authority is giving to other sports governing bodies who are looking to replicate the measures racing also operates to keep cheats out of sport.","date":"2008-05-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35870","proposer":"11221","edm":"1593","session":"2007-08","title":"Death Of Tommy Burns","text":"That this House sends its condolences to the family of Tommy Burns, a football legend in Scotland, who served his country and Celtic Football Club with great distinction.","date":"2008-05-15","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35871","proposer":"12004","edm":"1594","session":"2007-08","title":"Tommy Burns","text":"That this House is saddened by the death of Tommy Burns after a brave battle with cancer; notes his extraordinary contribution and service as player, coach and manager to Celtic, Scotland and latterly Kilmarnock Football Club; further acknowledges his outstanding contribution to Scottish sport; and extends its sincere condolences to Tommy Burns' widow, Rosemary, and his family at this very sad time.","date":"2008-05-15","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35838","proposer":"10597","edm":"1562","session":"2007-08","title":"Wood For Gold","text":"That this House takes note of the Wood for Gold campaign and the Wood for Good\/TRADA report on Wide Span Timber Sports Structures; and believes that at least one venue for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games should demonstrate the innovative, aesthetic and practical use of wood in the construction of modern sports stadia.","date":"2008-05-14","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35847","proposer":"10484","edm":"1571","session":"2007-08","title":"Fulham Football Club","text":"That this House recognises the extraordinary achievement of Fulham Football Club in securing Premier League football for next season; and salutes manager Roy Hodgson and owner Mohamed Al Fayed while noting that survival and success can be achieved despite a near universal opinion to the contrary.","date":"2008-05-14","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35769","proposer":"11892","edm":"1501","session":"2007-08","title":"Lurgan Junior High School Under-12 Football Team","text":"That this House congratulates Lurgan Junior High School under-12 football team on winning the Northern Ireland Cup; takes note that this is the first occasion in the school's history that it has won this tournament; further congratulates Kyle Cousins on scoring a hat-trick in the final; and offers its gratitude to all schoolteachers and volunteers who give of their time to encourage young people to participate in sporting activity.","date":"2008-05-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35770","proposer":"10331","edm":"1502","session":"2007-08","title":"Hereford United Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Hereford United Football Club on being promoted to the First Division; notes the success of the players and club officials in achieving this promotion; salutes the extraordinary support of Bulls' fans, at home and away, throughout the season; recognises Graham Turner for his personal contribution to Hereford United and football as the second longest serving manager in the Football League; and looks forward to success for United at Edgar Street in the years to come.","date":"2008-05-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35775","proposer":"10248","edm":"1507","session":"2007-08","title":"Sporting Listed Events","text":"That this House notes the Government's commitment to review in 2008 to 2009 the list of sporting events which must be offered at a fair and reasonable price to free-to-air broadcasters; further notes that this commitment was confirmed in 2006 in the wake of the sale of all live cricket rights to pay television; is concerned that the English Cricket Board is pre-empting this review by selling the rights for the period 2010 to 2013 including the 2013 Ashes series; is further concerned that from the 2008-09 season, all the coverage of the competitive qualifying matches of the national football teams of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will entirely disappear from free-to-air television; and calls on the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport to initiate the review of sporting listed events forthwith, with particular consideration being given to placing on the A list live coverage of the Ashes cricket series, all qualifying matches for the World Cup and European Championships of the home nations (as in Ireland, France, Italy and Germany) and the final day of the Ryder Cup.","date":"2008-05-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35748","proposer":"12834","edm":"1482","session":"2007-08","title":"Rangers Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Rangers Football Club on reaching the final of the UEFA Cup; and urges the Government to recognise this achievement by recommending Walter Smith for an honour at the next appropriate occasion.","date":"2008-05-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35749","proposer":"10096","edm":"1483","session":"2007-08","title":"Swansea City Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Swansea City Football Club for winning the League One Trophy and receiving promotion to the Championship; pays tribute to manager, Roberto Martinez, and the whole Swansea squad for achieving a club record of 92 points by playing high quality, attractive football; and wishes the Swans every success in meeting the new, demanding challenges of the Championship.","date":"2008-05-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35754","proposer":"10614","edm":"1488","session":"2007-08","title":"Visa Regimes For Football Supporters Travelling To The European Cup Final","text":"That this House welcomes the proposal by the Russian Government not to require British fans to apply for visas when they visit Russia for the Champions League Final between Chelsea and Manchester United on 21st May 2008; notes that this is an excellent way to celebrate the positive spirit of competitive football; recognises that the British Government is unable to waive visa restrictions in return in respect of the UEFA Cup Final in Manchester between Zenit St Petersburg and Glasgow Rangers on 14th May; and calls on the Government to waive visa fees as a goodwill gesture.","date":"2008-05-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35760","proposer":"10133","edm":"1494","session":"2007-08","title":"Arsenal Ladies Fc","text":"That this House congratulates Arsenal Ladies FC on winning the Women's FA Cup for the ninth time with superb skill and determination; and applauds their spirit and commitment, which is encouraging many young women to take up football.","date":"2008-05-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35709","proposer":"11672","edm":"1447","session":"2007-08","title":"OTLEY RUGBY CLUB'S PROMOTION TO NATIONAL LEAGUE ONE","text":"That this House congratulates Otley Rugby Club on being crowned champions of National League Two and being promoted to National League One; commends the Otley Rugby Club players, coach and staff, for the effort, skill and determination they have shown throughout the season; and hopes that Otley will build on this success in National League One over the coming seasons.","date":"2008-04-29","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35717","proposer":"11324","edm":"1455","session":"2007-08","title":"Gwernyfed Rugby Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Gwernyfed RFC on winning the Division 4 East of Wales Rugby Union; notes that the club was formed in 1965 as Gwernyfed High School Old Boys Club before moving to the Old Malthouse, Talgarth in 1991; further notes that the club was admitted into the Welsh Rugby Union in 1996; congratulates the club for running 1st, 2nd and ladies' XVs, youth and sides at all junior and mini ages down to eight years old; further notes that the club has over 250 senior members of which over 100 are active on the rugby field and sees over 100 children playing and training on Sundays; congratulates the club on its magnificent achievement this season and for the positive impact it has made on the local community; and pays tribute to people across Wales who give up their time to run local rugby clubs for the benefit of local people and communities.","date":"2008-04-29","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35718","proposer":"11719","edm":"1456","session":"2007-08","title":"Health Of Young People","text":"That this House commends schools and organisations which are working to reduce levels of obesity amongst young people by promoting active healthy lifestyles and good nutrition; draws particular attention to the work of SKIP2BFIT which has developed a programme to encourage young people to skip for 10 minutes every day; and calls upon the Government to provide funding and other support to all organisations undertaking such work.","date":"2008-04-29","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35722","proposer":"10293","edm":"1460","session":"2007-08","title":"Aldershot Town Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Aldershot Town Football Club on its return to the Football League after an absence of 16 years; salutes the remarkable achievement of the team and the club's management in climbing through five leagues to regain the place they lost in 1992; and notes that the club's total of 101 points is a conference record.","date":"2008-04-29","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35726","proposer":"12004","edm":"1429A1","session":"2007-08","title":"English National Anthem For The Rugby League World Cup","text":"after `anthem;', insert `further notes the difference between a national and Royal anthem;'.","date":"2008-04-29","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35690","proposer":"11672","edm":"1429","session":"2007-08","title":"English National Anthem For The Rugby League World Cup","text":"That this House notes with anticipation the forthcoming Rugby League World Cup 2008 in October in Australia; further notes that the home nations will be competing and Scotland, Wales and Ireland will use their own national anthems; calls upon England to adopt an English national anthem and not use the United Kingdom national anthem which should be used only when the home nations come together and play as a Great Britain team; believes that rugby league, as a progressive sport, should be prepared to lead on this and hopes that England Rugby League fans will be given the chance to choose an appropriate English anthem; and looks forward to a great competition and wishes the England team, as well as Scotland, Wales and Ireland, every success in the competition.","date":"2008-04-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35692","proposer":"11333","edm":"1431","session":"2007-08","title":"Sudden Cardiac Arrest Syndrome In Athletes","text":"That this House notes with concern that young, fit people are dying of sudden cardiac death syndrome; and praises the Scottish Government's investment in a \u00c2\u00a3100,000-a-year pilot programme, in co-operation with the Scottish Football Association, which will offer free screening to amateur athletes from the Hampden sports medicine facility.","date":"2008-04-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35697","proposer":"10465","edm":"1436","session":"2007-08","title":"Steve Goodwin","text":"That this House considers Steve Goodwin's goal in the match between Montgomery and Trewern on 26th April to be one of the greatest and most spectacular goals scored in the history of British football.","date":"2008-04-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35700","proposer":"10780","edm":"1439","session":"2007-08","title":"Actions Of Celtic Goalkeeper Artur Boruc","text":"That this House expresses support for the good work undertaken in combating sectarianism by the Glasgow football clubs, Rangers and Celtic, but deeply regrets the actions of Celtic goalkeeper Artur Boruc who, at the end of the recent Old Firm game displayed a T-shirt with the words God bless the Pope on it; is saddened that this, the latest in a series of controversial gestures by the same player which have no place in football, has not brought censure from his club; and hopes that Celtic can recommence their opposition to actions that could serve to heighten tension between players as well as supporters.","date":"2008-04-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35684","proposer":"11742","edm":"1425","session":"2007-08","title":"Northampton Saints Rugby Union Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates the Northampton Saints Rugby Union Football Club on its promotion to the Premiership and its unbroken run of victories in the League; applauds its winning the EDF Energy National Trophy at Twickenham; recognises the hard work of the squad, management, coaching and back room staff, directors and loyal fans; commends the responsible running of the club by its directors; and wishes the team great success in the Guinness Premiership next season.","date":"2008-04-25","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35648","proposer":"10295","edm":"1398","session":"2007-08","title":"Rugby League","text":"That this House notes that rugby league has been classed as a class B sport according to Sport England; recognises the national attraction of rugby league as a spectator sport coupled to the fact that participation rates are increasing at amateur level throughout the country in addition to the UK armed forces; further notes that crowd attendances are increasing, while major finals such as the Challenge Cup Final and Super League Grand Final produce sell-out crowds and international audiences; and calls on Sport England to reclassify rugby league as a class A sport.","date":"2008-04-23","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35668","proposer":"10526","edm":"1331A1","session":"2007-08","title":"River Access For Non-Powered Craft","text":"leave out from `Government' to end and add `to continue its policy that any increase in access to canoeists and non-powered craft being voluntary access agreements only, which have been proven to work in both England and Wales; believes that the users of all canoes and non-powered craft on inland waterways should be subject to the same restrictions as anglers, and the same penalties for infringements; further believes that the Environment Agency should have the power to close any waterway to any craft in the interests of protecting sensitive aquatic environments; and considers that, not withstanding the forthcoming Olympic Games, it should be remembered that angling is a sport which has four million participants in England and Wales with an annual economy of \u00c2\u00a33.5 billion and which has had great success in the recent World Championships'.","date":"2008-04-23","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35641","proposer":"10074","edm":"1394","session":"2007-08","title":"Hannah Miley And Swimming Facilities In Aberdeen","text":"That this House congratulates Hannah Miley on breaking the European and Commonwealth records for the 400 metre individual medley at the World Short Course swimming championships in Manchester in April 2008 which also saw Hannah win her first senior international medal at the age of 18; notes that Hannah is one of three swimmers alongside David Carry and Robert Renwick from North East Scotland to make it into the Olympic swimming team for the Beijing Games in summer 2008; welcomes the recent decision by the Scottish Executive to provide financial support to the new 50 metre pool proposed by Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeen University; and wishes all those swimming for Team GB every success in the Beijing Games.","date":"2008-04-22","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35605","proposer":"10070","edm":"1361","session":"2007-08","title":"Queen Of The South Football Club (No. 2)","text":"That this House congratulates Queen of the South Football Club on reaching the Scottish Cup Final for the first time in their 89 year history following the thrilling victory over SPL club Aberdeen; notes that this is a magnificent achievement for a club that only turned full-time this season; congratulates the entire squad, manager, coaching staff, directors, back-room staff and all the loyal supporters; and wishes them well on their return to Hampden on 24th May.","date":"2008-04-21","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35572","proposer":"10248","edm":"1331","session":"2007-08","title":"River Access For Non-Powered Craft","text":"That this House urges the Government to extend legislation on access to the countryside in England and Wales to allow canoeists and users of non-powered craft similar access rights to water as walkers have to the land; notes that in Scotland such access, accompanied by a code of rights and responsibilities for all concerned, has been successfully implemented; and believes that increased access to waterways would lead to greater participation in canoeing, resulting both in obvious health benefits to the nation and in increased chances of future Olympic success.","date":"2008-04-03","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35550","proposer":"10208","edm":"1309","session":"2007-08","title":"Ethical Trading And The 2012 Olympic And Paralympic Games","text":"That this House recognises the importance of taking a stand against abuses of workers' rights; believes that all who work to make London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games a success should have the right to decent work, living wages, and all provisions of the International Labour Organisation's (ILO) core conventions; appreciates the opportunity the Games present to set an example of ethical trading; welcomes the progress made by the organisers of the Games so far, their statement that suppliers and licensees will be required to comply with the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) base code, and their involvement with the Suppliers Ethical Data Exchange; notes that similar such commitments at previous Olympic Games have not been particularly successful due to a lack of effective monitoring and remediation measures; and consequently urges the Government to use its influence within the Olympic Board to ensure that contractual arrangements are in place that hold all manufacturers of official merchandise, equipment and clothing for the Games to account for the conditions in which they are produced, according to the standards of the ETI base code.","date":"2008-04-02","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35527","proposer":"10576","edm":"1291","session":"2007-08","title":"Manchester Velodrome","text":"That this House congratulates the British cycling team on its extraordinary success at the World Indoor Cycling Championships held in Manchester, where it won 11 medals, including nine gold medals; and recognises that the world class facilities of the Manchester Velodrome would be an ideal venue to hold the 2012 Olympics cycling competition and would also have the benefit of saving money from the overspent Olympic budget.","date":"2008-04-01","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35511","proposer":"10197","edm":"1276","session":"2007-08","title":"China And The Olympic Games","text":"That this House, remembering that those nations attending the 1936 Olympic Games in Nazi Germany believed that by participating in the Games the Hitler regime would be civilised, calls upon the Government and individual competitors in the 2008 Olympics in China to begin thinking how they will prevent a 1936 replay with a totalitarian state again using the Games for their own propaganda purposes.","date":"2008-03-31","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35477","proposer":"10077","edm":"1243","session":"2007-08","title":"Radio Leeds, Ken Bates And Leeds United","text":"That this House recognises that local radio stations have a key role to play in the communities they serve; regrets that Ken Bates, Chairman of Leeds United, has seen fit to end the contract for Radio Leeds to broadcast live coverage of Leeds United matches; recognises that for nearly 40 years through bad and good times Radio Leeds has provided an excellent service to the people of Leeds and the surrounding area who wish to follow the fortunes of their favourite team on match days; notes that a sizeable number of listeners are pensioners who are unable to attend games and will now have to buy a digital radio to listen to Yorkshire Radio, the creation of Mr Bates, which has now been given the contract to broadcast live matches; recognises that those who listen to car radio will also be disadvantaged by this move; and calls on Mr Bates to reconsider his decision and recognise that it is in the long-term interests of Leeds United to have the greatest possible local radio audiences to stimulate interest in and support for the club.","date":"2008-03-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35482","proposer":"11494","edm":"1248","session":"2007-08","title":"Cheltenham Festival 2008","text":"That this House congratulates all the team at Cheltenham Racecourse, the trainers, owners, jockeys and stable staff, businesses and racegoers for making this year's festival such a resounding success despite very challenging weather; pays tribute to those Irish visitors who braved stormy ferry crossings to keep their annual appointment at the racecourse; congratulates Denman and Sam Thomas on their awesome victory in the Gold Cup; reflects that even the cancellation of racing due to high winds provided a welcome boost for the county's unique local pubs, clubs and shops; and sincerely hopes that the rest of 2008 in Gloucestershire will pass without further storms, floods, earthquakes or other natural disasters.","date":"2008-03-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35459","proposer":"10780","edm":"1232","session":"2007-08","title":"Centenary Of The Birth Of Sam English","text":"That this House notes that 2008 marks the centenary of the birth of Sam English, born near Coleraine, who became the highest goal scorer for Glasgow Rangers in a single season, with a total of 44, a record still held to the present day; acknowledges the tragedy that occurred during a Rangers versus Celtic game in 1931 when English was involved in an accidental on-field collision with Celtic player, John Thompson, resulting in Thompson's death; notes that this deeply tragic death overshadowed English's playing career from that game onwards; and welcomes the efforts those involved with Glasgow Rangers FC are undertaking to ensure that this Ulsterman will be remembered for his goal scoring exploits rather than an accident from which an official inquiry at the time cleared him of any malicious intent.","date":"2008-03-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35428","proposer":"10062","edm":"1202","session":"2007-08","title":"Lacrosse","text":"That this House notes that lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports both in England and internationally and is played by children, men and women from a variety of backgrounds; congratulates the England Men's U19 lacrosse squad which is to take part in the World Championships in British Columbia in July; further notes that, although lacrosse benefits from Sport England funding for development, it receives no funding for its elite athletes who compete in England's international squads; regrets that the families of young England players are required to cover the considerable costs of training and competing on behalf of England and that the cost of competing in the World Championships is likely to be around \u00c2\u00a3175,000; and calls on the Government to ensure a fair allocation of resources in order to address the lack of funding for international lacrosse squads which could result in the loss of promising England players who can no longer afford to pay to compete.","date":"2008-03-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35365","proposer":"10070","edm":"1145","session":"2007-08","title":"Queen Of The South Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates Queen of the South Football Club on a magnificent victory that sees them through to the semi-final of the Scottish Cup for the first time in 58 years; further congratulates the entire squad, manager, coaching staff, directors and back-room staff and all the loyal supporters; and wishes them every success at Hampden Park on 12th April.","date":"2008-03-10","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35293","proposer":"11672","edm":"1084","session":"2007-08","title":"Leeds Rhinos Carnegie World Club Challenge Champions 2008","text":"That this House congratulates Leeds Rhinos on winning the Carnegie World Club Challenge 2008 at Elland Road by beating Australian Rugby League champions Melbourne Storm and being crowned best rugby league club side in the world; and hopes that this will provide inspiration to the home nations teams in the 2008 Rugby League World Cup in Australia in the autumn.","date":"2008-03-03","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35306","proposer":"10521","edm":"1098","session":"2007-08","title":"60th Anniversary Of Sports Report","text":"That this House congratulates the BBC Radio Saturday tea-time programme Sports Report on its 60th Anniversary; recognises that the programme, with its distinctive signature tune, is a national institution which provides a sense of purpose and tradition in an era of huge changes in professional football; pays tribute to all those who have been involved throughout the past 60 years, with particular mention of James Alexander Gordon who has been reading the classified results for 34 years, and Stuart Hall whose match reports are linguistic gems; and wishes Sports Report continued success as it embarks on its seventh decade as the BBC's flagship radio sports programme.","date":"2008-03-03","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35277","proposer":"10001","edm":"1076","session":"2007-08","title":"Olympic Construction Jobs","text":"That this House is concerned that the number of people from the five Olympic boroughs employed on the Olympic site is low; notes that the target given by the Olympic Delivery Authority is to employ only 10 to 15 per cent. of people from the five host boroughs on the Olympic Park construction workforce; further notes that this aim for unemployed people is only 7 per cent.; highlights the fact that the five Olympic boroughs suffer from some of the worst unemployment rates in the country; believes that in order for the Government to fulfil the promises that were made regarding the employment benefits of the Olympics these official targets should be much higher; and calls on the Olympic Delivery Authority and other stakeholders to seriously consider raising these targets.","date":"2008-02-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35262","proposer":"10231","edm":"1063","session":"2007-08","title":"Premiership Football Proposal For 39th Match","text":"That this House applauds the stand taken by Sepp Blatter, the FIFA President, and Michel Platini, the President of UEFA, in opposing the Premiership proposals for a globetrotting 39th match and for upholding the integrity of the English Premiership over the rampant greed of the owners of many of the Premiership clubs.","date":"2008-02-27","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35173","proposer":"11190","edm":"978","session":"2007-08","title":"ENGLAND WOMEN'S CRICKET TEAM","text":"That this House congratulates Charlotte Edwards and the England women's cricket team on their successful defence of the Ashes in Australia.","date":"2008-02-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35174","proposer":"10295","edm":"979","session":"2007-08","title":"ASHES SUCCESS OF ENGLAND WOMEN'S CRICKET TEAM","text":"That this House congratulates the England Women's cricket team for defeating the Australians and retaining the Ashes; notes that the victory came in Australia and is testament to the talent and hard work of the players and coaches; pays tribute to Charlotte Edwards and her team for their heroic efforts; and looks forward to more women taking part in cricket in order that the England Women's cricket team retains the Ashes for many years to come.","date":"2008-02-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35188","proposer":"10780","edm":"955A1","session":"2007-08","title":"Overseas Premier League Matches","text":"after `side', insert `other than by adding to the profits of one of a number of satellite broadcasters.'.","date":"2008-02-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35148","proposer":"11923","edm":"955","session":"2007-08","title":"Overseas Premier League Matches","text":"That this House notes with dismay the plans published by the Premier League to play one extra game per season in an overseas location; notes that the domestic football calendar is already extremely congested and a further fixture would add to the fatigue of players; further notes that the prohibitive cost of attending overseas fixtures would prevent loyal fans of Premier League teams from watching their side; and urges the Premier League to reconsider the plans.","date":"2008-02-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35088","proposer":"10437","edm":"911","session":"2007-08","title":"Crawley Town Football Club","text":"That this House notes Crawley Town Football Club's momentous eight-nil win over Droylsden Football Club on 2nd February giving them a place in the quarter finals of the F.A. Trophy; and wishes them well in their quest for a place in the final at Wembley.","date":"2008-02-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35060","proposer":"10614","edm":"884","session":"2007-08","title":"Racist Abuse Of Lewis Hamilton","text":"That this House is shocked and disappointed to note that Lewis Hamilton was racially abused during pre-season testing at a circuit in Barcelona in Spain; welcomes the fact that the Director of the Circuit de Catalunya, Ramon Pradera and the President of the Spanish Motorsport Federation, Carlos Garcia, have pledged to remove all racist elements from the circuit; congratulates Mr Hamilton on the dignity that he has showed; and hopes that the action taken by the International Automobile Federation ensures that this never happens again.","date":"2008-02-05","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35031","proposer":"11869","edm":"855","session":"2007-08","title":"Increase In Football Players From Overseas (No. 2)","text":"That this House celebrates the contribution of professional foreign footballers now playing in England; marvels at the skills of top class foreign players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Cesc Fabregas and Akos Buzsaky; believes that their footballing flair, technical ability and tactical acumen have all helped to make English football more entertaining, less parochial and better; further celebrates the wider success of the liberal principles of free trade, open markets and internationalism embodied by the introduction of foreign players; does not believe that these principles should be compromised by excessive regulation from the Government; and rejects the notion that foreign footballers harm the success of the England national team because the top English players on whom success depends such as Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand are good enough to prosper despite the increased competition from foreign players and actually benefit from training and playing with them on a regular basis.","date":"2008-02-04","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35044","proposer":"10367","edm":"868","session":"2007-08","title":"50th Anniversary Of The Munich Air Crash","text":"That this House notes with sadness that 6th February is the 50th anniversary of the death of the great Manchester United footballers, Roger Byrne, Geoff Bent, Mark Jones, David Pegg, Billy Whelan, Eddie Colman, Tommy Taylor and Duncan Edwards in Munich returning from the quarter final European Cup match against Red Star Belgrade; pays respect to the memory of the club officials, journalists and others who also died that day, including former Manchester City and England goalkeeper, Frank Swift; remembers the stunned sadness with which the whole of the City of Manchester was engulfed by the tragedy which impacted on every family and everyone there regardless of club allegiance or none; recalls that the Busby Babes were the first English club side under the guidance of Matt Busby to enter the premier European club competition blazing a trail followed by many since; acknowledges that this side is widely recognised as one of the finest football teams to play in England and in Europe; is aware that United's reputation and achievements on the field of play since that time are amongst the most fitting tributes to that Munich side; offers continuing condolences to those directly affected by the crash; and is aware that Wednesday will be a day held in respect by football supporters of all backgrounds throughout the world.","date":"2008-02-04","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35010","proposer":"10383","edm":"842","session":"2007-08","title":"Share Liverpool Fc","text":"That this House welcomes the initiative by Liverpool FC supporters in launching Share Liverpool FC in order to secure the ownership and control of Liverpool Football Club in the hands of supporters who have a genuine interest in the club's long-term future; and urges the Government to welcome this initiative in grassroots democracy in football.","date":"2008-01-31","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"35012","proposer":"10525","edm":"844","session":"2007-08","title":"Zoe Kane","text":"That this House congratulates Zoe Kane on winning a gold medal for the 400 metre freestyle, a silver medal for the 800 metre freestyle and a silver medal for the women's relay at the Special Olympics in Shanghai; notes the great journey Zoe has undertaken in confronting her fear of water and eventually excelling in the sport; further notes that Zoe has managed to achieve a tremendous amount; and cheers her on to further successes in the future.","date":"2008-01-31","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34994","proposer":"10298","edm":"828","session":"2007-08","title":"Second Sailing World Championship Gold Medal For Elliott Willis And Nic Asher","text":"That this House congratulates Elliott Willis and Nic Asher on winning the gold medal for Britain after a thrilling final race in the 470 Men's World Sailing Championship at Mordialloc Sailing Club in Melbourne; is thrilled that this is their second world title after their earlier victory in China in 2006; notes the success of British sailing in recent years; and hopes this great victory bodes well for many further successes for British men and women in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.","date":"2008-01-30","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34995","proposer":"11427","edm":"829","session":"2007-08","title":"Support For Iraqi Footballer, Nashat Akram","text":"That this House regrets the decision to refuse a work permit for the purposes of joining Manchester City to Iraqi footballer Nashat Akram, who played a major role in the Iraqi national squad's victory in the recent Asia Cup, on the grounds that, at 72nd in the international rankings, Iraq falls just outside the basket of 70 teams from which such candidates can be considered; notes that football is a great unifying force in Iraq and that Nashat's transfer to a major league team would also do much to boost the sport in Iraq; further notes the judgement of Manchester City Manager Sven-G\u00c3\u00b6ran Eriksson, that Nashat is a very good footballer with an excellent pedigree; and urges that consideration be given to the Iraqi Government request to revise this decision in the light of the fact that Iraqi football needs nurturing after several decades of fascist-type rule by the Ba'athists which isolated and hampered Iraqi football.","date":"2008-01-30","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34917","proposer":"10521","edm":"755","session":"2007-08","title":"Overseas Ownership Of Football Clubs","text":"That this House notes with concern that nearly half the clubs in the Premiership are now owned by overseas investors; questions whether this country's football interests, and the interests of UK supporters, are best served by this concentration of overseas ownership; and calls on the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee to hold an inquiry into the ownership of professional football clubs and how the interests of supporters can be protected and promoted.","date":"2008-01-22","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34918","proposer":"10521","edm":"756","session":"2007-08","title":"Increase In Football Players From Overseas","text":"That this House registers with concern the large increase in the number of professional footballers from overseas countries now playing in England, notably in the Premiership but also in the Football League; observes that whereas in 1992, the first season of the Premiership, there were just 11 foreign players, the number of overseas players now registered to play in the Premiership outnumbers those from the United Kingdom, with 331 signed from 66 different countries, representing more than 60 per cent. of those on the books of the 20 clubs; believes that this huge increase in players from overseas is to the detriment of the long-term interests of professional football in England and the future prospects of the national team in international competitions; and calls on the Government, working in partnership with the football authorities, to discourage football clubs from recruiting so many overseas players and instead to promote the development of football talent within the UK.","date":"2008-01-22","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34862","proposer":"10293","edm":"706","session":"2007-08","title":"Aldershot And The British Olympic Association","text":"That this House congratulates Aldershot on being selected by the British Olympic Association as the base for Team GB's training for the 2012 Olympic Games; and pays tribute to the unique partnership between the Army, Rushmoor Borough Council and Aspire Defence which will deliver superb facilities for Britain's Olympic athletes.","date":"2008-01-15","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34785","proposer":"10525","edm":"632","session":"2007-08","title":"Andy Murray","text":"That this House congratulates Andy Murray on his winning start to 2008; applauds his fantastic fourth career title win at the Qatar Open; notes that Andy Murray is now ranked amongst the top 10 in the tennis world rankings; and cheers the Scottish star on to further successes in the year ahead.","date":"2008-01-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34766","proposer":"10620","edm":"613","session":"2007-08","title":"Racecourse Bookmakers","text":"That this House is deeply concerned that hundreds of racecourse bookmakers across the UK will be financially ruined if racecourses refuse to recognise on-course bookmakers' list positions, as has been unintentionally facilitated by the Gambling Act 2005; notes that over \u00c2\u00a390 million has been spent by on-course bookmakers for their list positions since the introduction of the trading system in 1998; recognises that many bookmakers are small family-run affairs and rely on the equity ownership of these racecourse list positions to provide them with retirement security for themselves and their families; calls upon the Racecourse Association to reconsider its stated position that list positions will have no value in future and that it cannot in any way accept the arguments about security of tenure; and failing that, calls upon the Government to review the Gambling Act 2005 and consider necessary amendments to bring an end to the dispute between the Racecourse Association and Federation of Racecourse Bookmakers and its members in order to secure the livelihoods and assets purchased by those affected.","date":"2007-12-18","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34768","proposer":"10329","edm":"615","session":"2007-08","title":"Facilities For Disabled Football Supporters","text":"That this House notes that it is nearly 10 years since the Football Task Force Report was published with recommendations on improving facilities at football stadia allowing disabled fans a parity of access and enjoyment at football games in this country; notes that since then, a number of clubs across the leagues have made significant improvements and their disabled fans now enjoy better facilities; regrets that there is still a considerable deficit in facilities and services for disabled supporters at most professional league clubs; and calls on all football clubs to measure their disabled supporter facilities against the Accessible Stadia Guide and Football Task Force recommendations and make a commitment to reach an equality of supporter experience for all football fans as set out in the National Association of Disabled Supporters Blueprint.","date":"2007-12-18","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34740","proposer":"11170","edm":"589","session":"2007-08","title":"BBC Sports Personality Of The Year Award To Joe Calzaghe","text":"That this House congratulates Joe Calzaghe on winning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2007; notes the terrific contribution he has made to Welsh sport and to boxing as World Champion over the past 10 years; also congratulates Enzo Calzaghe for winning Coach of the Year and for his contribution to boxing; and wishes the Calzaghe camp every success for 2008.","date":"2007-12-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34751","proposer":"10459","edm":"600","session":"2007-08","title":"Deportation Of Mr Alhassan Bangura","text":"That this House notes with concern the decision to deport Alhassan Bangura to Sierra Leone; expresses alarm that Mr Bangura is being forced to return to the country he fled at the age of 15, escaping witchcraft and threats to mutilate him; notes that this deportation affects not only Mr Bangura but his girlfriend and newly born child and ignores the valuable contribution he has made to his community through playing for Watford Football Club; further notes the overwhelming support from fans at the Championship football club where a rally in support of Mr Bangura was held on Saturday 15th December; welcomes the support of the honourable Member for Watford who has drafted a petition calling for Mr Bangura to remain in Britain; emphasises that this high-profile case is one among many facing the same grave situation; and calls upon the Home Secretary urgently to review the case of Mr Bangura and grant him indefinite leave to remain in the UK.","date":"2007-12-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34752","proposer":"10619","edm":"601","session":"2007-08","title":"GREEN OLYMPICS AND THE EARTHWALKER'S CAMPAIGN","text":"That this House welcomes Paul Coleman's walk from Hong Kong to Beijing to help to encourage China to host an environmentally-friendly Olympics in Beijing in 2008; supports his effort to raise awareness of these issues; welcomes the support of the Chinese Forestry Ministry for his walk; encourages and supports China's effort to develop sustainability; wishes for a successful Beijing Olympics; urges all concerned with the 2012 London Olympic games to ensure that they will be truly sustainable; and acknowledges that a green London Olympics will advance British environmental industries and technologies that will ultimately benefit the global environment.","date":"2007-12-17","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34701","proposer":"13735","edm":"558","session":"2007-08","title":"Joe And Enzo Calzaghe","text":"That this House congratulates Gwent super-middleweight world champion Joe Calzaghe on being voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2007; additionally congratulates his father Enzo, for his award of Coach of the Year in the same awards ceremony on 9th December; and believes that significant investment in grass roots sports, as part of the build up to the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012, is essential to ensure that more talented athletes from across the United Kingdom are given every opportunity to maximise their own sporting potential.","date":"2007-12-12","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34695","proposer":"11923","edm":"554","session":"2007-08","title":"Pigeon Fancying","text":"That this House believes that pigeon fancying should be classified as a sport and is comparable to other animal-based sports such as horse riding; further believes that it is both wrong and fundamentally unfair that pigeon racing clubs have lost their tax rebate whilst sports of a similar status retain theirs; and calls upon the Government to rectify the situation as soon as possible.","date":"2007-12-11","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34654","proposer":"10646","edm":"468A1","session":"2007-08","title":"Recreational Sea Anglers","text":"at end add `which can only be achieved by withdrawing from the EU quota system.'.","date":"2007-12-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34610","proposer":"10208","edm":"477","session":"2007-08","title":"Child Labour And The 2012 Olympic And Paralympic Games","text":"That this House recognises the importance of making a stand against child labour; appreciates the opportunity the Olympics presents to send a firm message against its use; notes that previous attempts to ensure that the supply chains of Olympic merchandise are ethically sourced have not been particularly effective; and consequently urges the Government to ensure that all official merchandise, equipment and clothing produced for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are sourced from producers that adhere to the International Labour Organisation Convention 182 and Recommendation 190, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.","date":"2007-12-05","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34599","proposer":"11199","edm":"466","session":"2007-08","title":"Independent Review Of The Greyhound Industry","text":"That this House notes and welcomes an Independent Review of the Greyhound Industry in Great Britain by Lord Donoughue of Ashton; further notes the review was commissioned in the wake of reports of greyhound welfare issues and is wide-ranging; recognises it is underpinned by an improved welfare policy; and calls on the Government and the sport to work together to embrace and implement the report as soon as possible to improve greyhound welfare both while racing and into retirement as pets.","date":"2007-12-04","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34601","proposer":"11318","edm":"468","session":"2007-08","title":"Recreational Sea Anglers","text":"That this House supports recreational sea anglers; further supports better marine and fish stock management that would ensure that there would be more and bigger fish for anglers to catch; recognises that recreational sea anglers contribute an estimated \u00c2\u00a31 billion to the economy and create 19,000 jobs; calls upon the Government and sea fisheries committees to promote angling; regrets the proposals in the Marine White Paper to introduce a self funding recreational sea licence; and further regrets the Government's refusal to commit to introducing measures to eliminate discards.","date":"2007-12-04","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34544","proposer":"10034","edm":"422","session":"2007-08","title":"Tax Treatment Of Pigeon Racing","text":"That this House considers that pigeon racing, which has been recognised as a sport for over a century and is enjoyed by tens of thousands of people, should be treated in the same way as other sports are by public bodies, such as HM Revenue and Customs, and should benefit from the tax reliefs available to sporting bodies.","date":"2007-11-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34563","proposer":"10780","edm":"381A1","session":"2007-08","title":"Home Nations Football","text":"after `fans;', insert `recalls that the holders of the current Home Championship trophy, last awarded in 1984, are Northern Ireland;'.","date":"2007-11-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34564","proposer":"10780","edm":"399A1","session":"2007-08","title":"Home Nations Football Teams","text":"at end add `, recalling that the holders of the current Home Championship trophy, last awarded in 1984, are Northern Ireland.'.","date":"2007-11-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34565","proposer":"10323","edm":"402A1","session":"2007-08","title":"Bridleways","text":"at end add `and cyclists.'.","date":"2007-11-28","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34518","proposer":"10208","edm":"396","session":"2007-08","title":"Take Tourism Seriously Campaign And The Olympic Games","text":"That this House supports the Tourism Alliance in its Take Tourism Seriously campaign; notes that tourism is worth \u00c2\u00a385 billion to the UK economy; further notes that tourism is one of the UK's largest industries, employing over two million people; expresses great concern that the Government has cut funding for VisitBritain over the last decade and most recently by \u00c2\u00a39 million over the next three years; believes that this is part of a larger picture of the downgrading of tourism's importance to national policy; and urges the Government not to squander the opportunities provided by the 2012 Olympic Games to leave behind a strong tourism legacy for the UK.","date":"2007-11-27","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34521","proposer":"10614","edm":"399","session":"2007-08","title":"Home Nations Football Teams","text":"That this House regrets England's failure to qualify for the Euro 2008 championships and the failure of the other home nations to qualify; hopes that future decisions by the Football Association will mark the beginning of a new successful era for the English national team; trusts that the excellent performances of the Scottish and Northern Irish football teams will continue; believes that there are many outstanding candidates for the post of manager of the England team, including Jose Mourinho; and hopes that the football associations of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will consider participating in a home nations tournament in summer 2008.","date":"2007-11-27","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34524","proposer":"10295","edm":"402","session":"2007-08","title":"Bridleways","text":"That this House recognises the importance of bridleways for horseriders to exercise in safety and enjoy the countryside; notes that many bridleways are in poor condition or are abused by people using motorised vehicles; and calls on the Government actively to promote the use of bridleways, to ensure that those who use bridleways inappropriately are fined, to look to extend the number of bridleways across the country and to ensure that existing bridleways are kept open and are well maintained for horseriders.","date":"2007-11-27","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34502","proposer":"11923","edm":"381","session":"2007-08","title":"Home Nations Football","text":"That this House is bitterly disappointed that England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have all failed to qualify for the 2008 European football championships; is utterly depressed at the prospect of the lack of British interest in that competition; calls upon the football associations of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to reinstate the home internationals for the summer of 2008 in order to provide competitive international matches for British fans; and furthermore, with regard to England, urges the Football Association to appoint a manager of the calibre of Jose Mourinho to take charge of these and future matches.","date":"2007-11-26","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34505","proposer":"11221","edm":"384","session":"2007-08","title":"Golf World Cup","text":"That this House congratulates Colin Montgomerie and Marc Warren on winning the Golf World Cup.","date":"2007-11-26","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34515","proposer":"10133","edm":"394","session":"2007-08","title":"Arsenal Ladies Football Team","text":"That this House congratulates Arsenal Ladies on being awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Islington; congratulates them on being the most successful women's football team in Britain; further congratulates them on winning the womens FA Cup, League Cup, League and UEFA cup last season; and believes their success will inspire more women to take part in football.","date":"2007-11-26","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34516","proposer":"10282","edm":"374A1","session":"2007-08","title":"ENGLAND'S FAILURE TO QUALIFY FOR THE EUROPEAN FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS","text":"at end add `and notes that Northern Ireland and Scotland have finished, like England, third in their respective qualifying groups without the money and the hype, and with the continued, unreserved support of their fans.'.","date":"2007-11-26","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34489","proposer":"10009","edm":"369","session":"2007-08","title":"English Football","text":"That this House calls on the Football Association to re-examine the organisation of the country's national sport, paying particular regard to the salaries of football players and their managers; and further calls on the Association to look at the ticket prices for Premier League and international matches on the basis of affordability and value for money.","date":"2007-11-22","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34494","proposer":"10231","edm":"374","session":"2007-08","title":"ENGLAND'S FAILURE TO QUALIFY FOR THE EUROPEAN FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS","text":"That this House congratulates Croatia and Russia on qualifying for the European Football Championships from Group E; acknowledges that the Croatian team which beat England were far superior in technical ability, skill and commitment than the insipid and inept England team; notes that \u00c2\u00a3747 million was spent on the new Wembley Stadium but the match was played on a surface similar to those used by Sunday footballers on council pitches; thanks the efforts of the Israeli and part-time players of Andorra in trying to help England by doing their very best against Russia; commiserates with the fans who have spent large amounts of their hard earned money following England during these championships; believes that the over-paid, over-pampered and over-hyped English prima donnas from the Premiership who took the field against Croatia disgraced the England shirt once worn by legends such as Stanley Matthews, Duncan Edwards, Bobby Moore, Nobby Stiles and Bobby Charlton; and recognises that they will no doubt be consoled by the thought that while they are watching the European Championships from their luxurious holiday destinations their celebrity lifestyles will be protected by them still receiving their vastly inflated wages, provided by Sky and Setanta television money, from clubs in a Premier League which is nothing more than a money making machine for players, agents and entrepreneurial club owners which does very little for promoting the well-being of football in England either at the grass roots or international level.","date":"2007-11-22","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34495","proposer":"10096","edm":"375","session":"2007-08","title":"Penyrheol Comprehensive School Five-A-side Football Team","text":"That this House congratulates Penyrheol Comprehensive School in Gorseinon, Swansea, for winning the school Team of the Year prize in The Daily Telegraph\/Norwich Union School Sports Matters National Awards as a result of finishing last season as UK 5-a-side champions; recognises that this achievement has boosted morale in the school and the wider community, coming, as it does, just over a year after the school was burned down by arsonists; looks forward to the reconstruction of the school to the highest standards; and wishes students and staff continuing success in the future.","date":"2007-11-22","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34448","proposer":"10295","edm":"330","session":"2007-08","title":"Mike Gregory","text":"That this House notes with sadness the death of former rugby league player and coach Mike Gregory; pays tribute to his illustrious playing career as captain of Warrington and Great Britain and then moving into coaching, most notably taking Wigan Warriors to the 2003 Super League Grand Final and 2004 Challenge Cup Final respectively; recognises that his coaching career was cut short by a neurological condition which left him wheelchair-bound and eventually caused his death; further notes his immense courage which was displayed on the field as a player and during the period of his illness; and passes on its condolences to Mike's wife, Erica, the two children and their many friends.","date":"2007-11-20","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34417","proposer":"11995","edm":"306","session":"2007-08","title":"VAT On Leisure Facilities","text":"That this House notes the provision by many local authorities of access-for-all cards to maximise participation in local leisure facilities managed by local trusts; notes the implications of the recent decision in the Court of Session, in a case brought by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) against the Highland Council, that such trusts are liable for a substantial additional VAT bill on the fees for these access cards; notes that HMRC is now pursuing Inverness Leisure for an estimated \u00c2\u00a3200,000 in unpaid VAT; believes that, with 122 such trusts across the UK, HMRC is now seeking more than \u00c2\u00a325 million from such trusts; understands that if funds have to be found to meet these costs the options will be reduced hours, lost jobs and higher entry fees at leisure facilities across the UK; further believes that such an outcome would make such facilities less accessible to people on low incomes and undermine efforts to promote healthy living, sport and the fight against childhood obesity; further believes this effect will be particularly damaging as London prepares for the 2012 Olympics and Glasgow prepares for the 2014 Commonwealth Games; and calls on HMRC not to pursue back payment of VAT in these cases in recognition of the wider health, social and economic benefits that local leisure facilities provide.","date":"2007-11-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34418","proposer":"10780","edm":"307","session":"2007-08","title":"Northern Ireland Football Team","text":"That this House recognises the outstanding performances of the Northern Ireland football team in the qualifying rounds of the European Football Championship; congratulates the management, players and supporters on the achievements, which included defeating Spain, Sweden and Denmark in the tournament; further congratulates David Healy, who is now the qualifying tournament's highest ever goal scorer with 13 goals; and notes the final game of the qualifiers on Wednesday 21st November 2007 against Spain with up to 4,000 supporters at the Estadio do Gran Canaria and the possibility of reaching the finals in 2008.","date":"2007-11-19","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34392","proposer":"10113","edm":"281","session":"2007-08","title":"SUSTRANS' CONNECT2 BIG LOTTERY PROJECT","text":"That this House congratulates Sustrans' Connect2 project on reaching the shortlist of the Big Lottery Fund's The People's \u00c2\u00a350 Million contest; recognises that it is an exciting UK-wide project that aims to improve local travel in 79 communities by creating new walking and cycling paths for every day local journeys; notes that by building bridges and new crossings over barriers such as busy roads, rivers and railway lines, Connect2 will promote sustainable travel by connecting millions of people to the places they want to go; and urges the public to vote for the project in The People's \u00c2\u00a350 Million Lottery Giveaway public vote.","date":"2007-11-15","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34369","proposer":"11869","edm":"262","session":"2007-08","title":"Skittles","text":"That this House celebrates the great game of skittles, the traditional pub game in which players attempt to knock over nine pins arranged in a square at the end of an alley approximately 24 feet long; celebrates the various forms of the game found across the UK, including West County, Old English and Long Alley skittles and the local leagues dedicated to supporting them; wholeheartedly supports the game's unique contribution to the local community and the affection shown to it by the people of Somerset, the South West and beyond; expresses concern at the difficulties faced by publicans and players to maintain it; and calls on planning authorities to do more to protect skittles alleys, pub landlords to undertake every effort to promote the game to their customers, and individuals and groups to keep the tradition alive by trying their hand at a game of skittles in their local pub.","date":"2007-11-14","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34379","proposer":"10172","edm":"272","session":"2007-08","title":"Selection For The Northern Ireland Football Team","text":"That this House notes with concern the suggestion by the governing body of international football, FIFA, that football players born in Northern Ireland may be given the choice of playing at international level for either Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland; believes that such a proposal would be unprecedented and seriously undermine the development of football in Northern Ireland; and supports the Irish Football Association and the Amalgamation of Northern Ireland Supporters' Clubs in their outright opposition to this absurd and unacceptable proposition.","date":"2007-11-14","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34316","proposer":"11221","edm":"214","session":"2007-08","title":"European Football Championships","text":"That this House sends its best wishes to the Scottish National Football Team and their supporters for the forthcoming tie in the European Championships.","date":"2007-11-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34325","proposer":"10641","edm":"223","session":"2007-08","title":"Harrogate Railway Football Club","text":"That this House congratulates the Chairman Rob Northfield, the players, coaching staff and committee members of Harrogate Railway FC of Unibond League One North on their magnificent achievement in reaching the second round proper of the FA Cup, defeating Droylsden of the Blue Square Premiership 2-0; believes that the players McLaughlin, Haigh, Lowe, Conway, Robert Morgan, Riley, Thirkall, Littlefair, Scott Ryan, Lee Ryan, Adam Jones, Smith and the unused substitutes Turner, Hillier, Blair and Williams deserve huge credit for the way they played and represented the very best of non-league football; applauds the behaviour of both sets of supporters; and wishes Harrogate Railway FC every success in the next round of the FA Cup against Division Two side Mansfield Town.","date":"2007-11-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34331","proposer":"12834","edm":"229","session":"2007-08","title":"Scotland Football Team","text":"That this House wishes the Scotland football team well in their match against Italy on 17th November 2007; and congratulates them on their splendid achievement so far in the European Championships qualifying competition.","date":"2007-11-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34332","proposer":"11170","edm":"230","session":"2007-08","title":"Ray Gravell And The Prince William Cup","text":"That this House calls on the Welsh Rugby Union to name the cup to be played for by Wales and South Africa on Saturday 24th November 2007 after the late Ray Gravell; and believes that this would be a fitting tribute to a person who dedicated his life to Welsh rugby.","date":"2007-11-13","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34282","proposer":"11333","edm":"180","session":"2007-08","title":"2014 Commonwealth Games In Glasgow","text":"That this House welcomes the selection of Glasgow as the host city for the 2014 Commonwealth Games; congratulates and thanks all of those who have worked so hard over recent years, and across political divides, to make this bid a reality; notes that the Commonwealth Games will be a great showcase for Scotland as a modern and ambitious country; welcomes the social and economic dividend that the Games will bring; and looks forward to the role that the build up to the Games can play in inspiring Scots of all ages to take part in sport.","date":"2007-11-12","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34283","proposer":"10684","edm":"181","session":"2007-08","title":"Glasgow And The 2014 Commonwealth Games","text":"That this House congratulates the people of Glasgow, Steven Purcell, Leader of Glasgow City Council, Glasgow City Council, the 2014 bid team and all those connected with securing the 2014 Commonwealth Games for the City of Glasgow; and urges the UK Government to provide all necessary support and backing to ensure the success of the Games.","date":"2007-11-12","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34284","proposer":"11742","edm":"182","session":"2007-08","title":"Sri Lankan Cricket","text":"That this House congratulates Sri Lanka on 25 years of Test cricket and 170 Test matches; notes how they have transformed themselves into a major cricketing nation and recognises their achievement in reaching the 2007 Cricket World Cup Final and winning the 1996 World Cup Final; notes their first Test match was against England in 1982; and wishes both teams luck in the forthcoming Test series in Sri Lanka.","date":"2007-11-12","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34264","proposer":"13735","edm":"168","session":"2007-08","title":"Joe Calzaghe And The 2012 Olympics","text":"That this House congratulates Joe Calzaghe on winning his latest fight against Mikkel Kessler at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on 4th November, his 21st defence of his WBO belt, thus claiming the undisputed super middleweight crown; believes his latest victory, his 44th in a row, has brought pleasure to many millions of boxing fans across the nation and particularly in Newbridge, Gwent, his home town; believes that, if the United Kingdom is to continue to provide world sporting champions, especially in the run-up to the 2012 Olympic Games, then spending on sporting facilities for young people need to be improved through significant spending on sporting infrastructure and training across the UK; and looks forward to further world sporting champions coming from Wales.","date":"2007-11-08","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34226","proposer":"11719","edm":"136","session":"2007-08","title":"BRITISH AIRWAYS' BAN ON SURFBOARDS, WINDSURFERS AND CANOES","text":"That this House supports the role which surfing, windsurfing and canoeing plays in encouraging active, healthy lifestyles and in creating jobs in seaside areas and beyond; recognises that those who participate in these sports often need to travel abroad in order to improve their standard; further recognises the huge economic boost that surfing, windsurfing and canoeing have given to developing countries across the world; notes with concern that British Airways' decision to ban surfboards, windsurfers and canoes from its flights will vastly increase the costs and difficulties of travelling to such locations outside the UK as well as acting as a barrier to tourists wishing to travel to the UK to surf, windsurf and canoe; notes that the sporting equipment used is usually no heavier or cumbersome than musical instruments or golf club sets; and calls on British Airways urgently to reconsider its decision to ban surfboards, windsurfers and canoes from all flights.","date":"2007-11-07","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34104","proposer":"10470","edm":"14","session":"2007-08","title":"Horse Riding Establishments And Insurance","text":"That this House recognises the importance of the equine industry; notes with concern that horse-riding establishments continue to encounter difficulty with insurance claims following accidents and in obtaining insurance cover generally following the House of Lords interpretation of the Animals Act 1971 in the case of Mirvahedy v Henley [2003] 2 AII ER 401; further notes that this decision has limited the availability of insurance and increased the cost, adversely affecting the commercial viability of the equine sector; applauds the campaign initiated in 2005 by the Country Land and Business Association to have the Animals Act amended; and urges the Government to resolve this issue as soon as possible.","date":"2007-11-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34122","proposer":"11318","edm":"32","session":"2007-08","title":"Greyhounds","text":"That this House calls on the Government to address animal welfare concerns within greyhound racing; notes that 10,000 greyhounds retire from racing each year, but just 3,500 are re-homed through the largely industry-funded Retired Greyhound Trust and 1,500 through animal welfare charities; is concerned about the numbers of greyhounds unaccounted for; and calls upon the Government to introduce appropriate codes of practice under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 at the earliest opportunity.","date":"2007-11-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34123","proposer":"11318","edm":"33","session":"2007-08","title":"Angling","text":"That this House notes the contribution that the United Kingdom's four million anglers make to our environment and economy; and calls upon the Government to ensure that the interests of anglers are fully considered when making policy.","date":"2007-11-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34161","proposer":"10258","edm":"71","session":"2007-08","title":"Standing Areas At Football Grounds","text":"That this House urges the Government to accept the case for introducing small, limited sections of safe standing areas at football grounds; further urges the Government to recognise that there is widespread support for such areas and that improvements in stadium design and technology mean that with rigorous safety specifications, standing areas could be safely re-introduced; and calls on the Government to convene a meeting of representatives of the police, supporters, Premier League clubs and the Football Licensing Authority to find a way forward.","date":"2007-11-06","status":"c"},{"topic":"Sports","id":"34184","proposer":"11692","edm":"94","session":"2007-08","title":"Ray Gravell 1951-2007","text":"That this House expresses its sadness at the sudden death of Ray Gravell, recognises his considerable achievements as an international rugby player, actor and broadcaster; acknowledges with gratitude his recent campaigning on behalf of diabetes sufferers; and celebrates his life and his enthusiastic commitment to the Welsh language and to Welsh culture as represented by his unique contribution to the Gorsedd of the National Eisteddfod.","date":"2007-11-06","status":"c"}]