UK prime minister Theresa May has said that the Football Association will have to make its own decision on whether to send senior delegates to this summer's World Cup in Russia.
Earlier today May announced that no ministers or members of the Royal Family will attend the World Cup in response to an incident that has seen the Russian state accused of using chemical weapons on British soil.
There had previously been some suggestions that England could pull out of the tournament altogether as a result of Russia's actions, but speaking in the House of Commons this afternoon, May insisted that such decisions would be a matter for the FA, while also hinting that the organisation should 'consider their position'.
"I think the attendance at sporting events is a matter for sporting authorities," she said. "They will be aware of the statement I made today, they will be aware that we are saying no ministers or members of the Royal Family will be attending the World Cup and I'm sure they will want to be considering their position."
Asked whether any Three Lions fans travelling to Russia should feel safe making the journey, she replied: "I can give that assurance. I suggest that those who do wish to travel to Russia do ensure that they are checking the Foreign Office advice. My understanding is that the Foreign Office advice has not changed at this stage, but of course people should check that advice before they leave."
England's World Cup campaign is due to get underway against Tunisia on June 18 in Volgograd.
Neil Wilkes
