The final FIA Vanguard breakfast of 2005 took place on Thursday 8 December at the House of Commons.

The guest speaker was Derek Wyatt MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey.

Wyatt is actively involved in setting up a sports think tank and he also founded the Parliamentary Sports Fellowship.

He spoke about the need for a non-political sports think tank, which he says would help to ensure that when ministers change posts there is a crucial element of continuity in the focus and research within the industry.

The Parliamentary Sports Fellowship Scheme is aimed at developing knowledge and building links between Parliament and sport organisations. The scheme provides an opportunity for 15 MPs and peers to spend nine days working with organisations involved in the leadership, management and business of sport.

As a two-way scheme, there is an opportunity for participating representatives to spend the equivalent amount of time in Westminster. This helps to maximise their understanding of Parliamentary procedures and policy-making needed to further progress with the fitness industry.