THE Prime Minister has offered his congratulations to Hull on being named UK City of Culture 2017. David Cameron was responding to a question by Hull East MP Karl Turner during Prime Minister's Questions.
Speaking on the floor of the House of Commons, Mr Cameron said: "I am absolutely delighted to join with the honourable gentleman and everyone in Hull and around the country in celebrating this great award of the City of Culture to Hull.
"It is a very exciting opportunity for Hull. You will be able to celebrate the birth place of William Wilberforce, the fact that Andrew Motion lectured in Hull, Philip Larkin was the librarian.
"Slightly more incongruously, Peter Mandelson is the High Sheriff in Hull, but every city has its burden to bear!
"And of course, in terms of popular music Hull, has a fantastic record. I remember some years ago that great Housemartins album, which was London 0, Hull 4, because they said they were the fourth best band in Hull - so I am sure it will be a huge success for Hull.
Mr Turner said: "This is truly tremendous news and I can't tell you how delighted I am. This is fantastic news for the city and I hope this will be a catalyst to kick start a change in Hull's recent fortunes.
"It is testimony to the hard work of the bid team and I must congratulate Hull City Council for its pioneering proposal. Speaking to the Secretary of State Maria Miller, I understand that this was a unanimous decision.
"However the real work starts now and we must deliver a show stopping performance that shouts to the rest of the UK Hull is open for business. We need to capitalise on every opportunity that this prize will bring and ensure that its legacy is lasting for generations.
"I am looking forward to supporting as many events as I can and I hope that it is a turning point for the image of the city."
Hull North MP Diana Johnson said: "I'm delighted that the judges have awarded Hull City of Culture 2017. Hull finished first this time, against strong competition. This news will mean much-needed investment and local jobs, especially in arts and culture, but it will also boost wider regeneration in Hull."
Lord Prescott added his voice, applauding the team and inviting his army of 206,000 Twitter followers to view Hull's official video that supported the bid.
He tweeted: "It's Happy Hour again! #HullYes Well done @2017Hull #CityofCulture2017"
