Women’s Football

Ms McGovern highlighted the historical ban on women playing professional football in the UK, noting that this has contributed to current inequalities. She emphasized the need for more pitches and fairer treatment at both grassroots and professional levels, citing examples like the wage gap between Lauren James and her brother Reece James. Ms McGovern also praised Sue Campbell and Kelly Simmons from the Football Association for their work.

He discussed the historical ban on women's football by the Football Association in 1921, highlighting its impact and arguing that it was not due to health concerns but rather competition with men's football. He called for the FA to correct this mistake by investing in women's football clubs and academies, increasing media coverage, and encouraging spectatorship. Evans mentioned Don Revie as an example of a victim of cancel culture within football. He cited John Williams from the University of Leicester, who said that increased media coverage of women's sport represents a visible threat to some men, reflecting historical attitudes towards women's football.

Reminded Members to wear face coverings, follow Government guidance on lateral flow tests, and asked them to respect social distancing measures.

The Member praised the growth in women's football, noting record crowds and increased participation. He highlighted challenges such as club instability, low pay, poor access to facilities, and gender-based abuse. He called for a separate dedicated review of the women's game based on the fan-led review recommendations.

Commended Tracey Crouch for inspiring women's football teams, mentioning a visit to Comber women's football club in 2014 that is still remembered seven years later.

Kim Leadbeater, a Labour MP from Spen Valley and a new member of the cross-party parliamentary women's football team, highlighted barriers to female participation in football. She pointed out that women's teams often receive second-hand equipment and poor pitches after boys' or men's games. There are fewer opportunities for girls and women to progress within the sport due to lack of funding, media coverage, and coaching support. Female referees face significant abuse and sexist attitudes at clubs. Leadbeater urged Parliament to address these issues to ensure that football is a welcoming environment for all.

Ms Owatemi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss women's and girls' football, highlighting its growth in the UK. She discussed barriers faced by female players, such as financial pressures leading to club liquidation and cultural attitudes that discourage participation. She provided an example of Coventry United Ladies FC facing near-liquidation due to pandemic-related financial issues, only saved through community efforts and a local company takeover.

Celebrated the growth in women's football participation, noting it has doubled since the FA's 'Gameplan for Growth' was published five years ago. Raised concerns about difficulties transitioning from school to club-level play, requiring joined-up thinking with the Department for Education and partners. Highlighted challenges faced by professional female players regarding contracts and working conditions at Coventry and Charlton. Called for an independent review into women's football as recommended in the fan-led review. The Minister was aware that the Home Office had tabled an amendment to extend football banning orders in order to tackle online racist abuse, suggesting this could be an opportunity to ensure that football-related matters are covered.