John Healey has written to the Sports Minister, Lisa Nandy MP, outlining his support for an Independent Football Regulator.
The Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP has met with Rotherham United COO, Paul Douglas, about the Football Governance Bill on several occasions to talk about rebalancing the relationship between fans and clubs and between the biggest names in the Premier League and the smaller clubs lower down the leagues.
It’s ahead of the Football Governance Bill’s 2nd reading that takes place in the House of Commons next week (28th April)
The Bill was initially introduced by the previous Government in March 2024 but was not completed before the General Election. Since then, the new Government has reintroduced the Bill and has also updated and strengthened it.
John Healey MP said:
“English football is one of our greatest exports and a source of national pride which this Government wants to see thrive for generations to come.
“Having met with Rotherham United COO, Paul Douglas, on several occasions about the Bill it’s clear to see that we need to put fans and communities back at the heart of the game.
“Football would be nothing without its fans, and this strengthened Bill will deliver an Independent Regulator that gives them a voice at the centre of their clubs. From protecting club heritage such as shirt colours and badges that mean so much to so many of us, to requiring clubs to consult fans on changes to ticket prices, the Regulator will help make the game the best it can be.”
The Football Governance Bill follows the Fan Led Review which was carried in 2021 and recommended a regulator for the long-term stability of the game.
The Bill now places a greater emphasis on a stronger requirement for fan engagement, requiring clubs to explicitly consult supporters on issues such as ticket pricing or proposals to relocate their home grounds. Additionally, the Regulator can now consider parachute payments in its processes.