Overview

This bill aims to increase fan involvement in the governance of football clubs in England and Wales. It proposes giving supporters' organizations a guaranteed share of club ownership and board representation upon changes of ownership, promoting greater fan influence in club decisions.

Description

The Football Governance (Supporters' Participation) Bill mandates that football clubs offer a minimum percentage (up to 10%) of their shares to a designated supporters' organization ("FCSA") when ownership changes. It also requires clubs to reserve board seats (at least two, up to a quarter of the board) for election by the FCSA.

Qualifying Supporters' Organisations (FCSAs)

The Secretary of State will define what constitutes an FCSA, covering aspects like constitution, membership, oversight, and federation. Only one FCSA per club will be permitted, and these organizations will have rights to information concerning club management, operations, and ownership.

Regulations and Enforcement

The Secretary of State will create regulations detailing which clubs the bill applies to, the process for forming and joining an FCSA, and the specific decisions where FCSA involvement is mandatory. Failure to comply with the requirements related to notice, consultation, or involvement of the FCSA in designated decisions will be an offence, punishable by a fine.

Further Regulations

The bill allows for regulations concerning property rights related to the club and its assets. These regulations will require parliamentary approval after consultation with relevant stakeholders, including clubs, leagues, players, and supporters.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify government spending. The costs will likely involve the Secretary of State's work in establishing the regulatory framework for FCSAs, and enforcing compliance.

Groups Affected

Football Clubs: Required to offer shares and board seats to FCSAs, potentially impacting ownership structures and decision-making processes.

Football Supporters: Given greater potential influence over their clubs through the establishment of FCSAs and their participation in club governance.

Football Leagues: May need to adapt their rules to accommodate the bill’s requirements regarding FCSA participation.

Secretary of State: Responsible for creating and overseeing the regulatory framework.

Powered by nyModel