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Football Attendances: VAR — [Mr Clive Betts in the Chair]
17 March 2020
Lead MP
Toby Perkins
Chesterfield
Lab
Responding Minister
Nigel Huddleston
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Word Count: 6594
Other Contributors: 6
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 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:
Lead Contributor
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.
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.
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
Government Response
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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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.