House of Commons · Westminster Hall
22 June 2022 · 9 other contributors · 9,297 words
Opened by Theresa Villiers Con Chipping Barnet
Responding minister: Nigel Huddleston
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Theresa Villiers raised concerns about antisemitism and other racism in football in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
I urge the Minister to ensure that the Online Safety Bill effectively combats antisemitism online, including requiring tech companies to address risks of algorithmic recommendation tools amplifying hate content. Additionally, I call for urgent action to prevent and punish antisemitic behaviour in football grounds and on social media.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the prevalence of antisemitic incidents in football, including social media abuse directed at Jewish players and fans. Specific incidents mentioned include an online comment against Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton, negative responses to Aston Villa's 'Happy Passover' message, and antisemitic chants by West Ham and Burnley supporters. These incidents highlight that antisemitism remains a serious issue in football despite efforts to combat it.
Asked about the need for more action to stamp out online antisemitism, which is prevalent in football grounds.
Discussed the presence of antisemitism and racism in British football, highlighting specific incidents and urging for tougher sanctions against offenders. Emphasised the importance of education about racial abuse and called for a zero-tolerance policy.
Acknowledges progress made in reducing racism but highlights ongoing issues such as the abuse faced by players like Nir Bitton and Glen Kamara. Emphasises the need for education to combat ignorance about antisemitism, citing a 2018 CNN investigation where a third of Europeans were unaware of the systematic killing of six million Jews during the Holocaust.
He highlighted the increase in hate crime incidents reported by football policing authorities, noting specific racist incidents involving England fans during Euro finals. He also discussed antisemitic incidents and praised clubs like Chelsea for their efforts to combat antisemitism. The Labour MP supported Tottenham's decision to discourage use of an offensive term but acknowledged its complex history.
Jim Shannon expressed concern over instances of racism in football and highlighted the importance of unity and respect. He mentioned Northern Ireland's efforts to bridge sectarian divides through inclusive initiatives, noting improvements in community relations but stressing that more work is needed to combat racial abuse.
Asked about extending the IHRA definition internationally through UEFA and FIFA, highlighting a local graffiti war involving antisemitic content from rival Polish football fans in 2017.
She questioned the effectiveness of UEFA's commitment to review loopholes in its policies for behind-doors matches, where games are supposed to be played without spectators as punishment for previous fan behaviour.
Antisemitism is often overlooked in discussions about racism in sport, despite shocking examples such as Nazi salutes and antisemitic chants. The APPG against antisemitism has worked with football clubs to address the issue, but more awareness and action are needed.
Racism still exists in football, including instances of antisemitism. Tottenham Hotspur fans historically used a term as a defence mechanism against antisemitic abuse, though not all Jewish supporters view it positively. The club is working to reduce the use of this term and combat antisemitism.
Government Response
Nigel HuddlestonIt is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Stringer. I thank my right hon. Friend the Member for Chipping Barnet (Theresa Villiers) for securing this important debate and all those who have participated. There is a very clear message coming from this Chamber today; it is clear from my right hon. Friend's comments—and those of all Members who have spoken—that we all share the view that it is of the utmost importance to continue tackling the issues of antisemitism and racism in football, in sport and, indeed, in society. That is why the Government and its arm's length bodies, Sport England and UK Sport, have worked closely with football authorities and the sector to ensure that tackling all forms of racism and discrimination remains a priority. I am personally committed to this, as I want sport to be welcoming to everyone and a true reflection of our diverse society. Over the past year, incidents have been recorded of antisemitism and Jewish fans being abused in the UK and across Europe. Many colleagues today have mentioned the Euro 2020 finals, after which there was an increase in online abuse, indicating that this remains a serious issue in football. The Government has worked with football authorities to tackle the issue by improving reporting systems, providing better training for referees and stewards, and enhancing CCTV equipment around stadiums. One significant action was amending legislation to extend the use of football banning orders so that online abusers can be banned from stadiums for up to 10 years. The FA has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism and works closely with independent bodies such as Kick It Out to educate people about antisemitism. The Premier League launched a dedicated reporting system in June 2020, which has proven successful in pursuing legal action against offenders. This offence and abuse can be a hate crime, which is illegal and should be pursued in the courts. The fan-led review of football governance recommended that football authorities work even more closely to ensure consistent campaigns across organisations. The Government are pleased that the Premier League, the FA, and the EFL have agreed to collaborate on an overarching campaign for equality, diversity and inclusion across football with Kick It Out. Updates on progress will be provided every six months. Sport England, UK Sport, and other home nations' sports councils published the results of a detailed review of tackling racism in June 2021, which brought together data and gathered lived experiences of racial inequalities in sport. The findings make it clear that racism and racial inequalities still exist within sport in the UK. The updated code places an increased focus on diversity in decision making and requires sports organisations to produce individual diversity and inclusion plans annually. This is essential for attracting and retaining talented athletes from all backgrounds who feel welcomed and respected. Penalties for bad behaviour by fans are the responsibility of the clubs, which need to be punished accordingly. There is no place for racism, sexism, homophobia, or any other kind of discrimination in football or sport more widely. The Government are committed to continuing to work with football authorities to combat racism, discrimination and antisemitism, both in person and online.