Member

On the noble Lord’s continued pursuance of the Prime Minister’s role—or lack of a role—in the chair’s appointment, where an appointment is inextricably linked to the Government’s priorities, of course No. 10 is engaged and updated throughout the appointment process. The process here was no different and follows a precedent set by successive Administrations. The Football Governance Act 2025 is explicit that the IFR chair decision is for DCMS Ministers. The PM made it clear in his letter to the independent adviser that he knew the decision was for the Secretary of State to take, and he replied on the basis that this decision was taken. He also made it clear that, in retrospect, it would have been better if he had not been given the note or confirmed he was content with the appointment. The ethics adviser has welcomed the transparency the PM has demonstrated in this.