Sir Philip, one of three Britons who are members of the International Olympic Committee, will serve for a final four-year term that will include the London 2012 Paralympics following election in Kuala Lumpur, where the IPC is holding its General Assembly.

 

The 59-year-old from Bolton was elected to the top position in Paralympic sport in 2001 following a successful career as a wheelchair basketball player, which included representing Britain at five editions of the Paralympic Games, from 1972 to 1988.

 

He also competed in track and field athletics and swimming at the 1972 Games.

 

Sir Philip, formerly the company secretary of the British Coal Corporation, is one of the most influential sport administrators in the UK and also sits on the Board of London 2012.

 

He said: "I am inspired by being amongst representatives from 115 NPCs (National Paralympic Committees), 22 Paralympic sports, the five regions and all four IOSDs (International Organisations of Sports for the Disabled).

 

"The IPC’s strength undoubtedly comes from the strength and abilities of its members.

 

"I am looking forward to meeting with you all to map out our course for the future.

 

"It will give us all great pleasure to reflect on the successes of the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games and assess the progress being made towards the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, the London 2012 Paralympic Games, the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games and as we have known for seven weeks the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games."

 

The IPC Congress are also due to rule on whether athletes with a intellectual disability will be able to compete at London 2012.

 

They have been banned since 2000, when the Spanish basketball team was revealed to have cheated at the Sydney Games.

 

 

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