David Cameron to join Prince William at England v France football match


November 17, 2015

David Cameron will attend the England v France football match on Tuesday evening at Wembley to show solidarity with Paris, following last week's terror attacks. The Prime Minister will join other high-profile spectators in the crowds, including Prince William who is attending in his capacity as president of the Football Association, and Mayor of London Boris Johnson.

It was originally thought that the friendly would be postponed after Friday's attacks, one of which took place outside the Stade de France during the France v Germany game.

A spokesperson for 10 Downing Street confirmed to ITV that the prime minister would attend Tuesday's match. It comes just a day after Mr Cameron openly stated that he would take his children to Wembley.

© Photo: Getty Images

David Cameron will attend the match alongside Prince William and Boris Johnson

"Yes I would," Mr Cameron said during a press conference. "I think it's very important that we carry on with our lives. What these terrorists want to do is to change our way of life and to destroy our way of life."

He added: "Remember that our freedom depends on us showing resolve and carrying on our way of life, which is precisely what we ought to do."

In a show of respect for the victims of the Paris attacks, a minute's silence will be held before the game and players will wear black armbands. Fans are encouraged to sing the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, with words being streamed on the big screen.

The arch over Wembley – like other iconic monuments around the world – has been lit up in the colours of the French flag.

© Photo: Getty Images

Wembley has been lit up in the colours of the French flag

Earlier on Tuesday Mr Cameron tweeted a photo of himself at the French ambassador's residence, paying his respects to the victims.

"I have signed the book of condolence at the French ambassador's residence," he wrote. "We stand united with the French people."

The day after the attacks Mr Cameron also posted: "I have spoken to Francois Hollande. I expressed our solidarity with France and said we will do whatever we can to help."

Mr Cameron signed the book of condolence for the Paris victims

Extra security measures will be in place at Wembley, including armed police on the ground.

Prince William, who had reportedly not planned to attend, will also be in the stands. Meanwhile his wife the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton, will be carrying out an engagement with The Fostering Network.

William joins his family in paying tribute to the victims. His grandmother the Queen issued a statement of condolence from Buckingham Palace, saying: "Prince Phillip and I have been deeply shocked and saddened by the terrible loss of life in Paris. We send our most sincere condolences to you, the families of those who have died and the French people."

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