Overview

This Bill aims to increase supporter involvement in the governance of football clubs in England and Wales. It mandates that clubs offer shares to supporters during ownership changes and reserve board seats for election by a designated supporters' organization.

Description

The Football Governance (Supporters' Participation) Bill seeks to enhance fan participation in football club management. Key aspects include:

• Establishment of Football Club Supporters' Associations (FCSAs): The Secretary of State will establish FCSAs, outlining their constitution, membership, and oversight. Each club will have only one FCSA.
• Board Representation: FCSAs will be entitled to appoint at least two, and up to a quarter, of a club's board members.
• Share Ownership: FCSAs will have preferential rights to purchase up to 10% of club shares during ownership changes.
• Regulatory Powers: The Secretary of State will create regulations covering the types of clubs affected, FCSA formation, information disclosure to FCSAs, FCSA involvement in club decisions, and mechanisms for share ownership.
• Offences and Penalties: Failure by clubs to consult with their FCSA on designated decisions will constitute an offence, punishable by fines.
• Consultation and Regulations: The Secretary of State must consult relevant stakeholders before creating regulations and will publish a consultation report. Parliamentary approval of regulations is required.
• Geographical Scope: The bill applies to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, costs will arise from the Secretary of State's responsibilities in establishing and overseeing the FCSAs and creating and implementing regulations.

Groups Affected

• Football Clubs: Required to offer shares and board seats to supporters, impacting their ownership structures and governance.
• Football Supporters: Given increased opportunities to participate in club governance through FCSAs and potential share ownership.
• Football Club Owners: Will experience changes to ownership structures and governance processes.
• Football Leagues: May need to adapt their rules to accommodate the Bill's provisions.
• Secretary of State: Responsible for establishing regulations, overseeing FCSAs, and resolving disputes.

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