Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

BRADFORD BULLS AND RUGBY LEAGUE

19 December 2016 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Judith Cummins Lab Bradford South

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Judith Cummins raised concerns about bradford bulls and rugby league in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Ten years ago, the Bradford Bulls won four Super League championships and five Challenge Cup titles.
  • The Odsal Stadium, home to the Bradford Bulls, holds a record attendance of over 102,000 spectators and supports community work through its foundation.
  • The club is currently in its third period of administration since 2012, impacting the local economy and rugby league's reputation.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Judith Cummins Lab Bradford South

Ten years ago, the Bradford Bulls were dominant in rugby league with four Super League championships and five Challenge Cup wins. The club's stadium at Odsal holds a record attendance of over 102,000 spectators and is central to community work through its foundation, which received an award this year for working with over 30,000 people in Bradford. However, the Bulls are currently in their third period of administration since 2012, affecting not only the club but also the local economy and rugby league's reputation. Despite this setback, the potential for regeneration at Odsal is significant, offering opportunities to strengthen community involvement and sports development. The concern is that some interested parties may prioritise property over sport, threatening the club’s identity and legacy.

Other contributors (1)
  • Imran Hussain Lab Bradford East

    Agrees with Judith Cummins about the need to encourage young people and women in Bradford to participate more in sports.

Government Response

Tracey Crouch

The Minister acknowledged the debate on the future of the Bradford Bulls and their importance to the community, noting HMRC's involvement and adherence to confidentiality. She emphasised the need for a sustainable business model in rugby league, praising the reduction in football club insolvencies through strengthened financial regulations and governance codes. The minister encouraged communities to utilise provisions under the Localism Act 2011 to protect valuable assets like Odsal Stadium from speculative property interests. She welcomed the prompt reinstatement of the Bulls to the RFL if new owners are secure, urging ongoing support for a healthy domestic rugby league sector.

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