Football Governance Bill debated in the Lords

Members of the House of Lords debated the key principles of the Football Governance Bill on Wednesday 13 November.

The Football Governance Bill seeks to establish an independent football regulator and introduce a licensing system for football clubs as part of a new regulatory regime for men’s football in England.

Debate on the draft law

During second reading, members discussed the main issues in the bill and drew attention to concerns or specific areas where they believe amendments (changes) are needed.

Members speaking 

Baroness Twycross (Labour), Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Culture, Media & Sport, kicked off the debate and responded on behalf of the government.

Members speaking included:

Lord Addington (Liberal Democrats), vice president of the UK Sports Association
Baroness Brady (Conservative), vice chair of West Ham United Football Club
Baroness Grey-Thompson (Crossbench), Paralympian and trustee of the Stadium of Light Foundation, official charity of Sunderland AFC
Lord Triesman (Labour), former chair of the Football Association and Wembley National Stadium.

Opening the debate, Baroness Twycross said:

'Despite its phenomenal success, we know that irresponsible owners, unsustainable financial models and inadequate regulation have cast a shadow over too many of our clubs.

'Clubs will be required to demonstrate sound basic financial practices, have appropriate financial resources, and protect the core assets and value of the club, such as the stadium.'

Baroness Brady said:

'If we stunt the ability of the Premier League to maintain its growth and revenues, ultimately there will be far less investment in the whole of football, including the grass roots and the women’s game. That would be a very bad outcome.'