Football Governance Bill at critical juncture – Lisa Nandy

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has criticised some opposition members of the House of Lords, who she says are “intent on wrecking” the Football Governance Bill by having it delayed “for years to come”.

The legislation, which will establish the first independent regulator for the professional men’s game in England, was reintroduced to Parliament by the government in October.

It has just completed the first ‘committee stage’ in the Lords, where hundreds of potential amendments have been tabled.

One that could soon be voted on is a proposal to reclassify the legislation as a ‘hybrid bill’, which would require additional consultation with clubs.

“We really are at a critical juncture here,” said Nandy, speaking at a meeting of club representatives from the English Football League (EFL).

“We’ve had what is known as a ‘wrecking amendment’ put in front of the House of Lords in recent weeks to turn this bill into a hybrid bill, which would bury it in committee for years and years to come.

“And I do want to say to that handful of peers that have decided to take that approach, ‘what you are doing is killing off the hopes and dreams and inheritance of fans who deserve far, far better’.”

A hybrid bill is one that is deemed to target specific private interests – such as football clubs. It must allow those affected to submit a petition to Parliament outlining their opposition, potentially adding to the time needed for it to pass into legislation.

Conservative peers have denied claims they are trying to delay the bill, insisting they are subjecting it to proper scrutiny.