Heather Wheeler welcomed the news last month that Derby County FC and their 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 several 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 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.
Heather Wheeler recently met with Stuart Andrew MP, Minister at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, to ensure sufficient pressure is being put on MPs to see that the Bill passes its 2nd reading before Parliament ends for the summer.
Commenting, Heather Wheeler said:
“I remember back in 2022, constituents wrote to me of the plight of Derby County FC in their droves. Following years of turmoil as a result of unprecedented spending and transfer embargoes, Derby County FC was unfortunately relegated to League One.
“Whilst I am very glad to have seen their recovery this past year, led by David Clowes's ownership and Paul Warne’s impressive management. I want to make sure something like this can never happen again.
“That is why I welcome that the 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 Government is sticking to its long-term plan for fans, creating a brighter future for fans and our beloved local clubs. I will continue to work hard to see that this Bill is successful and made into law as soon as possible.”
