Independent Football Regulator 2023-11-16
2023-11-16
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the need for an independent body to regulate English football, aiming to prevent future financial crises similar to that faced by Bury FC. The issue has been brought up due to concerns about fan engagement and financial sustainability in football.
I am concerned about establishing an independent regulator for English football to ensure fans are at the heart of the game and it has a sustainable financial future. What is her planned timetable for this?
The Government remain committed to putting fans at the heart of football and ensuring its sustainable financial future. The football governance Bill was included in the King's Speech, and we intend to work closely with the Football Association, the leagues and fan associations to build the best independent regulator possible.
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Assessment & feedback
Planned timetable for establishing the regulator
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns over the lack of agreement between the Premier League and the English Football League regarding money redistribution, which is crucial for financial sustainability in football.
While negotiations are ongoing between the Premier League and the EFL on money redistribution, what can she do to bring both sides together to reach an agreement?
I understand my hon. Friend's concerns regarding money redistribution; I support his encouragement for football associations to reach an agreement, and if necessary, the independent football regulator will have targeted statutory powers to intervene on financial distributions as a last resort.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions she can take immediately
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns about the potential failure of the regulator to address complicated issues, as highlighted by Gareth Southgate. Additionally, there is worry that clubs such as Bury might face similar situations without immediate regulatory action.
How will we ensure that the regulator gets it right, and can she assure swift implementation so more clubs do not go the way of Bury?
We are bringing in a regulator to protect fans. I have had conversations with leagues, parliamentary colleagues, and fans to ensure we get the regulation right. We committed to bring forward a fan-led review White Paper which we have done and announced the football governance Bill.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures to ensure correct implementation
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
There is interest in whether the independent regulator will include women's football. Additionally, the Carney review on women's football has been mentioned as an important document.
Will she confirm discussions with the FA about including women's football in the independent regulator and when the Government intend to publish their response to the Carney review?
I have regular discussions with the FA. At the moment, the regulator will cover the men's game but we met Karen Carney a week ago. Her review is important for women's football and sport, and our response to that report will be published very shortly.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for publication of Carney review response
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns that the Premier League has tried to water down the powers of the regulator through late representations. This could affect the regulatory effectiveness.
What was the Government's response to the Premier League's attempts to water down the powers of the proposed independent regulator?
We want to ensure we get the regulator right. It is essential that we protect fans and bring forward legislation. The legislation will strike the balance between protecting fans and ensuring our premier league remains a competitive, world-class sport.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific response to Premier League representations
Response accuracy
Q6
Direct Answer
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There are fears that an independent regulator might not be in place soon enough to prevent more football clubs from financial distress, like Scunthorpe and Reading. This prompts a call for immediate measures.
What immediate action and interim measures is the Department taking to ensure an independent regulator can start functioning as soon as new legislation is passed?
We are putting in place a shadow regulator, and we have advertised for the appointment of the chief operating officer. As soon as legislation is passed, everything will be ready so that it can come into force immediately.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy