STATUTORY FOOTBALL COMMISSION

Early day motion 1739, tabled 14 October 2003 by Lord Stratford (Labour). Signed by 26 members.

That this House believes that no FA, Premier or Nationwide League club, whether publicly or privately owned, should have its ownership transferred until the proposed new owners have fully complied with bona fide tests in respect of personal and financial background, resource availability and future plans for club development; further believes that a football commission should be established with statutory powers to oversee any takeover, intervening where necessary and with its membership drawn from Government, the football authorities, the Professional Footballers Association and supporters; proposes that the Football Commission should have power to require any proposed owners to lodge surety bonds and that the Commission's funding should be by way of levy on broadcasting and merchandising rights; and calls upon Her Majesty's Government to introduce the necessary primary legislation as soon as possible.

Signatures by party: Labour 18, Liberal Democrat 4, Labour/Co-operative 2, Plaid Cymru 2.