Sports Minister responds on John Terry

You may recall that I emailed Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe to strongly protest at his inappropriate intervention in the FA's decision-making about John Terry. I have received a reply, below, from Mr Sutcliffe's department. I am amused to see that the email says: "This is a matter for the Football Association and the England management to deal with and not the Government." Yes, that is the point I was making - it was wrong for the Sports Minister to get involved!
Here is the full email:

Dear Mr Harris

Thank you for your e-mail of 1 February to the Sports Minister, Gerry Sutcliffe, regarding the issue over the England captaincy.

The role of England captain is one that comes with responsibility. Whoever wears the armband is looked up to by millions of young football fans across the country and has a duty to be a positive role model for the sport.

This is a matter for the Football Association and the England management to deal with and not the Government.

Kind regards

Department for Culture, Media & Sport

Public Engagement & Recognition Unit