Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Football Attendances: VAR — [Mr Clive Betts in the Chair]

17 March 2020 · 6 other contributors · 6,594 words

Opened by Toby Perkins Lab Chesterfield

Responding minister: Nigel Huddleston

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

Toby Perkins raised concerns about football attendances: var — [mr clive betts in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about VAR implementation negatively impacting football's appeal and fans' enjoyment.
  • The MP calls for VAR's abolition or significant changes to its operation, including reviewing offside laws and involving fans in decision-making.
  • The minister noted high attendance levels above 95% since VAR's introduction in 2018, highlighting football's global appeal.

Key requests to Government

The MP calls for the abolition of VAR, arguing it should not be tolerated unless significant changes are made to its operation, including reviewing the offside law and involving fans in decision-making processes. He also requests that decisions only be altered if they are clear and obvious errors.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Toby Perkins Lab Chesterfield

The MP is concerned that the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in football has negatively impacted the sport's appeal and fans' enjoyment. He cites issues such as delays in decision-making, offside decisions based on hairline margins, and the lack of spontaneity during matches. The YouGov poll showed 67% of fans felt VAR had made watching football less enjoyable.

Other contributors (6)
  • Brendan O'Hara SNP Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber

    I intervened to criticise the suggestion of discarding VAR entirely, arguing that while its implementation needs improvement, it is not inherently wrong and can cost millions in club futures. I also noted that my hon. Friend was resembling a footballing Luddite.

  • Clive Betts Lab Sheffield South East

    Order. Given the number of people here, you will all have longer than it takes for the video assistant referee to make a decision.

  • David Linden SNP Airdrie and Shotts

    Discussed the commercialisation of football due to VAR, arguing it makes matches less enjoyable for fans. He cited issues like frequent stoppage times and exclusion from the decision-making process as detrimental to the game's integrity.

  • Gavin Newlands

    I supported the idea of video refereeing but criticised VAR's current implementation for lack of transparency and real-time process, suggesting changes could make it more successful, aligning with my role as SNP spokesperson for sport at Westminster.

  • Tom Greatrex Lab Corby

    Disagreed with David Linden on VAR, supporting a full removal of it from football. Mentioned issues like offside decisions and handball rules needing review for clarity.

  • Tracy Brabin Lab Batley and Spen

    She highlighted the impact of VAR on football, noting that it has become a source of controversy rather than fairness. She called for improvements to fan communication and clear guidelines for VAR usage to enhance the in-stadium experience.

Government Response

Nigel Huddleston

He noted the professional tone of the debate despite challenging circumstances. He recognised the importance of football clubs to local communities and emphasised the premier league's global appeal, with matches broadcast in over 192 countries. Since introducing VAR in 2018, attendance has remained high at record levels above 95%. The minister highlighted ongoing efforts by the EFL Away Fan Experience Project and iFollow service to enhance fan engagement. He acknowledged that while VAR may cause delays, it does not seem to affect fans' interest in attending matches or watching games. The Government committed £550 million towards grassroots football facilities in support of England's bid for the 2030 World Cup, building on the Football Foundation's work since 2000. He concluded by praising the premier league and EFL for their efforts to improve fans' matchday experience and their investment in community programs.

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