Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to emails released under Freedom of Information legislation detailing the Premier League's wish to ensure that it was on the same page as his Department regarding the proposed takeover of Newcastle Utd by Saudi investors, what was his Department's objective in meeting the Premier League; and whether that objective was achieved.

FCDO officials held meetings with the Premier League following a request by the latter. FCDO officials were clear with the Premier League that any prospective takeover of Newcastle United Football Club was a matter for the two parties concerned.