NEWCASTLE UNITED AND THE RENAMING OF ST JAMES' PARK

That this House deeply regrets the decision to rebrand the historic home of Newcastle United Football Club, St James' Park; condemns the corporate vandalism perpetrated by the club's owners in removing the name St James' Park from the stadium; warmly endorses the now famous front page banner headline of the local Evening Chronicle `St James' Park and Always Will Be'; notes that the Chief Executive of Newcastle's new shirt sponsor, Virgin Money, has added her concerns about the rebranding and hopes that others will follow her example; further notes that Newcastle City Council has debated and agreed a motion stating that the Council has no plans to change any wayfinding signs which bear the nameSt James' Park, rather than the name of Mike Ashley's business; and urges Mike Ashley, the owner of Newcastle United, to reconsider his decision.