Portsmouth as the watersports venue for the 2040 Olympic Games

That this House welcomes the Government’s interest in a bid to host the 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games; notes the comments of the Liberal Democrat Leader of Portsmouth City Council, Councillor Steve Pitt, urging the Government to fully utilize existing world-class infrastructure across the United Kingdom; recognises that the Solent is globally renowned as the historic home of British sailing, boasting unmatched natural maritime geography, complex tidal conditions that challenge the world's best athletes, and a deeply rooted seafaring heritage; further recognises Portsmouth’s proven track record in successfully staging elite international maritime events, including SailGP, the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, and the Ocean Race; draws comparisons to the highly successful selection of Weymouth and Portland as the sailing venue for the London 2012 Games, which delivered significant regional economic benefits and a lasting sporting legacy; and strongly calls on the Government to select Portsmouth as the premier venue for Olympic watersports in 2040.