Jonathan Coupe, Chairman of North Trafford Local Conservatives has welcomed the news that Manchester United and its fans are set to benefit from the creation of an Independent Football Regulator following the introduction of the Football Governance Bill.
Local clubs are the lifeblood of communities across the country. The introduction of legislation to create the Independent Football Regulator follows a number of threats to the game that have arisen without fan consultation; these have included club relocations, the creation of the European Super League and drastic alterations to the identity of clubs which have threatened their heritage.
That is why the Conservative Government is addressing the concerns of fans by creating an Independent Football Regulator which will be given comprehensive powers to work with clubs to improve their finances, create stronger tests for proposed club owners and safeguard clubs’ heritage by delivering greater fan representation in club decisions.
The Independent Football Regulator will oversee a new licensing regime for clubs in the top five tiers of English football. The regulator will follow an advocacy first approach but will have the power to revoke licences and impose fines where serious breaches occur.
The regulator will also be responsible for overseeing requests by club owners to sell the club or relocate the stadium and introduce baseline standards for fan involvement in key off field decisions such as club heritage.
The Conservative Government is sticking to its long-term plan for fans, making sure that their concerns are listened to, creating a brighter future for the game.
Commenting, Jonathan Coupe said:
“Football clubs like Manchester United are the lifeblood of communities across the country, including in North Trafford, with thousands of us each week turning out to support our local team.
“That is why I welcome that the Conservative government is ensuring that fans are better represented through the creation of the Independent Football Regulator which will bolster clubs’ financial security, protect the heritage of our clubs and represent fans at all levels.
“The Conservative Government is sticking to its long-term plan for fans, creating a brighter future for fans and our beloved local clubs.”
