Overview

This bill amends the Football Offences Act 1991 to broaden the definition of offensive chanting and gestures at football matches to include actions targeting sexual orientation and gender reassignment, alongside existing provisions for racist and indecent behavior. It clarifies the existing legislation and strengthens protections against discriminatory behavior.

Description

The bill primarily amends Section 3 of the Football Offences Act 1991, which deals with indecent or racist chanting. Key changes include:

• Expanded Definition of Offences: The definition of offensive behavior is expanded to explicitly include gestures, in addition to chanting. The bill also extends protection to cover actions targeting a person's sexual orientation or gender reassignment, using the protected characteristics defined in the Equality Act 2010.
• Updated Terminology: The outdated term "racialist" is replaced with the more modern term "racist".
• Clarification of Terms: The bill provides clearer legal definitions for "gesturing" (movement to express an idea), and "indecent" (threatening, abusive or insulting matter).
• Application:The Act applies to England and Wales and comes into force two months after it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant impact on government spending. The cost of enforcing the amended legislation will likely be absorbed within existing budgets for policing and prosecution of football-related offences.

Groups Affected

• Football Clubs: Increased responsibility for ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for spectators.
• Football Fans: Those engaging in discriminatory chanting or gestures will face prosecution under the amended law.
• LGBTQ+ Individuals: Enhanced legal protection against homophobic and transphobic abuse at football matches.
• Law Enforcement: Increased responsibilities in investigating and prosecuting offences under the amended act.

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