CONDUCT AT THE WORLD CUP

Early day motion 2538, tabled 10 July 2006 by David Marshall (Labour). Signed by 29 members.

That this House congratulates the German organising committee on doing an excellent job in the World Cup but is saddened that this was not repeated on the field of play and that a competition which promised so much delivered so little; regrets that it will be remembered for the cheating, complaining to referees, cynical professional fouls, diving, elbowing, feigning injury, lack of sportsmanship, shirt pulling, simulation and time wasting by too many grossly overpaid players, often referred to as `superstars', who behaved more like spoilt brats and set a disgraceful example to millions of young fans; notes that a record number of red and yellow cards were handed out by referees, some of whom appeared to be incompetent and short-sighted; further notes that the discredited leadership of the President of FIFA did not help; and hopes that the situation can be greatly improved for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and that this will be a marvellous showcase for the African continent, football and sport in general.

Signatures by party: Labour 12, Liberal Democrat 8, Conservative 5, DUP 3, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.