THUGS AND PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL

Early day motion 595, tabled 17 December 2001 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 36 members.

That this House congratulates the football authorities on their efforts in recent years to deter so-called supporters from engaging in acts of violence and racial abuse; regrets that some clubs and the game's governing bodies have not been so successful with a small number of professional footballers whose thuggish behaviour tarnishes football's image on and off the pitch; urges all clubs to dispense with the services of those who, through their actions, cannot be looked upon as role models; believes that there can be no place in the national football team for those whose acts fall woefully short of the high standards of sportsmanship and civilised behaviour which those chosen to represent their country have traditionally aspired to; and urges the Football Association, in the long-term interests of the game, to take decisive action against those whose behaviour brings professional football into disrepute.

Signatures by party: Labour 21, Liberal Democrat 12, Labour/Co-operative 3.