Olympic and Paralympic Games: Team GB
Debate between Lord Wrottesley and Baroness Twycross
Baroness Twycross (Lab)
Being thrown in the deep end definitely prepares one for ministerial life. I will look into what specific arrangements are undertaken, but I would assume that the sports covered in these major tournaments would then anticipate an upturn. I will look into what happens and what more can be done to make sure that they are available for people when they express an interest.
Lord Wrottesley (Con)
My Lords, now that a fiscal event has taken place, will His Majesty’s Government urgently review the strategy for the UK’s hosting of major and mega sporting events, given that opportunities have already been, and will in future be, missed if no review immediately takes place? I declare an interest as, earlier this year, we lost the opportunity to host the International Ice Hockey Federation men’s world championship. That would have brought in over £56 million of economic benefit to the UK—not a bad return on investment—and, specifically, would have helped the levelling-up agenda by supporting regions in the north.
Baroness Twycross (Lab)
I am aware of the issue that the noble Lord raises. However, we are clear that hosting major events contributes to inspiring future generations and to the economy. We have a number of tournaments coming up, such as Euro 2028, the Women’s Rugby World Cup next year and other future events. I hope that we will be able to have more success in relation to the ice hockey next time than we did this time.