Overview

This bill changes the name of the Football Licensing Authority to the Sports Grounds Safety Authority and expands its powers. The expanded authority will advise government ministers and other bodies on sports ground safety in the UK and internationally, subject to certain conditions and approvals.

Description

Name Change and Continued Existence

The Football Licensing Authority will be renamed the Sports Grounds Safety Authority. The Authority will continue to exist.

Expanded Advisory Role

The Sports Grounds Safety Authority will be able to advise ministers of the Crown on sports ground safety generally and on the exercise of ministerial functions under several Acts (The Safety of Sports Grounds Act 1975, Part 3 of the Fire Safety and Safety of Places of Sport Act 1987, and the Football Spectators Act 1989). It can also advise local authorities and other bodies or persons in England and Wales, as well as bodies and persons outside England and Wales (subject to conditions including the request of the body or person and consent from the Secretary of State). Fees may be charged for advice provided at the request of the recipient, subject to cost recovery.

Authority Structure and Governance

The bill details the Authority's corporate status, membership (a chairperson and at least 4 other members appointed by the Secretary of State), appointment and tenure of members, remuneration, meeting procedures, appointment of inspectors and employees, financial accountability (including accounting practices and auditing by the Comptroller and Auditor General), and provisions for dealing with conflicts of interest among members.

Consequential Amendments

The bill makes consequential amendments to other Acts to reflect the name change and expanded role of the Authority. It also repeals and revokes certain provisions that are no longer necessary.

Government Spending

The expenses of the Sports Grounds Safety Authority will be paid by the Secretary of State. Fees charged for advice can offset these expenses.

Groups Affected

• The Football Licensing Authority/Sports Grounds Safety Authority: Undergoes a name change and gains broader responsibilities and powers.
• Ministers of the Crown: Will receive advice on sports ground safety.
• Local Authorities in England and Wales: May receive advice on sports ground safety.
• Bodies and persons in England and Wales: May receive advice on sports ground safety (subject to certain conditions).
• Bodies and persons outside England and Wales: May receive advice on sports ground safety (subject to certain conditions and consent from the Secretary of State).
• Sports Grounds: Will indirectly benefit from the improved safety standards resulting from the Authority's work.

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