CONDUCT OF PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS

Early day motion 394, tabled 14 February 2000 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 52 members.

That this House condemns the rising level of violence by professional footballers; believes that such behaviour on and off the pitch sets a bad example to young people; notes with regret the abject failure of the football authorities, managers and club directors to deal firmly with players whose conduct brings the game into disrepute; considers that the growing tendency by players and other to cheat, abuse match officials and generally disregard the spirit of sportsmanship are damaging to the future of the game; and urges the Government to demand that the football authorities take action to restore the high standards which were once the hallmark of British football.

Signatures by party: Labour 35, Liberal Democrat 10, Labour/Co-operative 4, Conservative 1, Independent Labour 1, UUP 1.