Peter Gibson MP has welcomed the news that Darlington Football Club and its fans are set to benefit from the creation of an Independent Football Regulator following the introduction of the Football Governance Bill.
Local clubs are the lifeblood of communities across the country. The introduction of legislation to create the Independent Football Regulator follows a number of threats to the game that have arisen without fan consultation; these have included club relocations, the creation of the European Super League and drastic alterations to the identity of clubs which have threatened their heritage.
That is why the Conservative Government is addressing the concerns of fans by creating an Independent Football Regulator which will be given comprehensive powers to work with clubs to improve their finances, create stronger tests for proposed club owners and safeguard clubs’ heritage by delivering greater fan representation in club decisions.
The Independent Football Regulator will oversee a new licensing regime for clubs in the top five tiers of English football. The regulator will follow an advocacy first approach but will have the power to revoke licences and impose fines where serious breaches occur.
The regulator will also be responsible for overseeing requests by club owners to sell the club or relocate the stadium and introduce baseline standards for fan involvement in key off field decisions such as club heritage.
The Conservative Government is sticking to its long-term plan for fans, making sure that their concerns are listened to, creating a brighter future for the game.
Commenting, Peter Gibson MP said:
“Football clubs like Darlington Football Club are the lifeblood of communities across the country, including in Darlington, with thousands of us each week turning out to support our local team.
“That is why I welcome that the Conservative government is ensuring that fans are better represented through the creation of the Independent Football Regulator which will bolster clubs’ financial security, protect the heritage of our clubs and represent fans at all levels.
“The Conservative Government is sticking to its long-term plan for fans, creating a brighter future for fans and our beloved local clubs.”
Commenting, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:
“Football has long been one of our greatest sources of national pride. Up and down the country, it brings people together in celebration or commiseration.
“But for too long some clubs have been abused by unscrupulous owners who get away with financial mismanagement, which at worst can lead to complete collapse – as we saw in the upsetting cases of Bury and Macclesfield Town.
“This Bill is a historic moment for football fans – it will make sure their voices are front and centre, prevent a breakaway league, protect the financial sustainability of clubs, and protect the heritage of our clubs big and small.”
Commenting, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said:
“Football is nothing without its fans. We are determined to put them back at the heart of the game, and ensure clubs as vital community assets continue to thrive.
“The new Independent Regulator of Football will set the game on a sustainable footing, strengthening clubs and the entire football pyramid for generations.”
