FUTURE OF SCOTTISH FOOTBALL

Early day motion 364, tabled 8 February 2000 by Jim Murphy (Labour). Signed by 18 members.

That this House notes the concern of the Scottish Professional Footballers Association about the dramatic increase in the number of foreign players in Scottish football; believes that, although a number of the current 125 foreign players in Scotland enrich Scottish football, the future for Scottish football lies in its ability to grow its own domestic talent while importing the very best international players; believes that in the interests of the domestic game and the long term success of the Scotland national team there is a need for action; welcomes the establishment of the Scottish Executive's Taskforce which aims to create a network of local football academies; and believes that those interested in the long term well-being of the Scottish game, including supporters, clubs, players' representatives, the SFA and government should work together with the aim of growing its own talent and ensuring that Scottish football clubs have a balance of Scottish and foreign players.

Signatures by party: Labour 15, Labour/Co-operative 2, Liberal Democrat 1.