Fears have been raised over the safety of England fans during the World Cup in Russia, amid criticism of "vague reassurances" given by the UK Government.

The influential Commons Foreign Affairs Committee is also concerned the expulsion of 23 British diplomats from Russia following the Salisbury nerve agent attack - including staff preparing for the tournament - may have "dented the thoroughness of preparations".

Some 10,000 supporters from the UK are expected to attend matches during Russia 2018 as tensions remain high with Moscow following the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury in March.

England fans already have reason to be wary after some were attacked by Russian hooligans at the 2016 European Championships in France.

In its report, the committee notes that "mobile embassies" are to be used in cities where England play matches, but says it is more concerned about what happens between games.


Image: England fans were attacked by Russian hooligans at the 2016 European Championships in France

Amid concern over homophobic attitudes in Russia, the 11 MPs on the cross-party committee have asked the Foreign Office (FCO) to set out "specific assurances" it has been given by Russian over the safety of LGBT fans.

They say the department has a "duty" to offer "consular support to all UK fans" making the trip.

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Conservative committee chairman Tom Tugendhat said: "At this late stage, the FCO should be able to demonstrate it can communicate swiftly with all the fans who travel - from basic information announcements to security advice, if required.

"This includes BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic) and LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) fans.

"Vague reassurances from Foreign Office ministers have not been enough to reassure us that UK nationals will be safe, regardless of their background or sexual orientation."

The MPs' gloomy assessment is in line with the public's predictions for the tournament.

An Ipsos MORI survey of almost 20,000 people in 27 countries has found the UK to have the bleakest view of the tournament's likely success, how safe it is to travel to Russia and whether the country's hosting of the World Cup will improve its image.