Football sponsors should undergo 'fit and proper' test hear MPs following Wonga link-up with Newcastle United

Wonga have a shirt sponsorship deal with Blackpool (Getty Images)

Companies planning to advertise with football teams should undergo a “fit and proper” test, MPs heard today, as the row over Wonga's link-up with Newcastle United continued.

The payday loans firm, which has been criticised for the high interest rates it offers borrowers, signed a deal to have its name on the Magpies' shirts.

The contract is estimated to be worth £8 million a year.

But United season ticket holder and Labour MP Ian Lavery condemned the deal in the Commons today.

Speaking as MPs discussed future Commons business, the Wansbeck MP demanded a Westminster debate to scrutinise such arrangements.

He said: "Will the Leader of the House make time for a debate on sports sponsorship, with the ultimate objective to put in place a fit and proper companies test for future sponsorship at major sporting events?

"I name the likes of Atos and Wonga which, in my belief, are companies which are pretty dubious to be able to sponsor major events in this country."

Commons Leader Andrew Lansley urged Mr Lavery to seek an adjournment debate, adding that the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee could examine sports sponsorship.

PA