The claim attracted widespread attention and criticism, which apparently forced the about-face.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Newcastle's plan to cut all funding for venues including the Theatre Royal attracted widespread attention with deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg calling it "shameless political opportunism and cynicism".

BBC: Newcastle Council finds ?600,000 for arts sector

Not only did U.S. educators play a leading role in designing and carrying out the study, but the results, which showed U.S. high school students lagging behind those in other industrial countries, attracted widespread attention in the news media and in educational circles.

UNESCO: II Part Analytic Section

Among other athletes outside the U.S. to come out was Gareth Thomas, a Welsh rugby star who attracted widespread media attention in 2009 when he announced he was gay.

NPR: 'I'm Gay': NBA Player Jason Collins Breaks Barrier