Culture, Media and Sport CommitteeLetter from the Chair to the British Olympic Association

My Committee has for some months been conducting an inquiry into support for the creative economy. One key aspect is how the legacy left by the Olympics, including the showcase of the opening ceremony, can be consolidated and built on. During our most recent oral evidence session on 26 March it became clear that this legacy is in danger of being severely compromised by evidently unnecessary restrictions arising from the application of the No Marketing Rights Protocol. These do not appear to have been adequately remedied by the subsequent Supplier Recognition Scheme.

I am inclined to agree with our witnesses that this is a ridiculous situation. When British companies are bidding for contracts for the Rio Games, surely they should be given every opportunity to promote their achievements in London.

I understand that responsibility for this issue has now passed to the British Olympic Association. As this is a matter which my Committee intends to pursue, I would therefore be grateful if you could set out the exact position and also explain why it is considered necessary to impede British companies in this way—long after the London Olympics have ended.

8 April 2013