Football Governance Act 2025

1

Clause 53, page 42, line 8, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act"

2

Clause 53, page 42, line 13, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act"

3

Clause 53, page 42, line 14, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act"

4

Clause 53, page 42, line 19, leave out “leviable”

5

Clause 53, page 42, line 26, leave out subsection (4)

6

Clause 53, page 43, line 2, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act"

7

Clause 53, page 43, line 4, leave out “its leviable” and insert “those”

8

Clause 54, page 44, line 13, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act"

9

Clause 54, page 44, line 14, leave out “its leviable” and insert “those”

10

Clause 56, page 46, line 27, leave out “means an order under section 62(1) or (3)" and insert “has the meaning given by section (Distribution orders)(6)"

11

Clause 56, page 46, line 42, leave out subsection (7)

12

Clause 57, page 47, line 12, leave out “the application relates” and insert “the question or questions for resolution mentioned in subsection (1) relate"

13

Clause 58, page 48, line 7, at end insert- "(za) set out details of the question or questions for resolution mentioned in section 57(1) to which it is intended the application will relate,”

14

Clause 58, page 48, line 8, leave out “the application relates” and insert “that question relates or those questions relate”

15

Clause 58, page 48, line 12, leave out paragraph (c)

16

Clause 58, page 48, line 22, at end insert- "(za) set out details of the question or questions for resolution mentioned in section 57(1) to which the application relates,"

17

Clause 58, page 48, line 23, leave out “the application relates” and insert “that question relates or those questions relate"

18

Clause 58, page 48, line 27, leave out paragraph (c)

19

Clause 59, page 48, line 33, leave out “the qualifying football season or seasons” and insert “one or more of the questions for resolution”

20

Clause 59, page 48, line 34, after “relates” insert “(or a modified version of one or more of those questions)”

21

Clause 59, page 48, line 36, leave out “a” and insert “the”

22

Clause 59, page 48, line 36, leave out “qualifying football season” and insert “question or questions for resolution"

23

Clause 59, page 48, line 38, leave out “that season” and insert “each season to which the question relates or the questions relate”

24

Clause 59, page 48, line 41, after “triggered” insert “in relation to the question or questions for resolution"

25

Clause 59, page 49, line 4, after “triggered” insert “in relation to one or more of the questions for resolution"

26

Clause 59, page 49, line 10, at end insert- "(4A) Where the IFR is minded that the resolution process should be triggered, the IFR must consult the Football Association on the question or questions for resolution in relation to which it is minded to trigger the process.”

27

Clause 59, page 49, line 15, at end insert- "(zi) the question or questions for resolution in relation to which the IFR is triggering the resolution process,"

28

Clause 59, page 49, line 16, leave out “the resolution process relates” and insert “that question relates or those questions relate”

29

Clause 59, page 49, line 18, leave out sub-paragraph (ii)

30

Clause 59, page 49, line 18, at end insert- “(iia) how the IFR has taken account of any representations, copies of which accompanied the application under section 57 by virtue of section 58(5)(d), in setting out that question or those questions, and”

31

Clause 59, page 49, line 20, leave out “the question or questions for resolution” and insert "that question or those questions"

32

Clause 59, page 49, line 21, at end insert- "(5A) Where any of the questions for resolution set out in the notice differ from those to which the application made under section 57 relates, the notice must set out the extent of, and reasons for, those differences."

33

Clause 60, page 50, line 4, after “resolution” insert “set out in a notice under section 59(5)(b)(zi)"

34

Clause 60, page 50, line 6, leave out “the question or questions for resolution” and insert "that question or those questions"

35

Clause 60, page 50, line 15, after “resolution” insert “set out in a notice under section 59(5)(b)(zi)"

36

After Clause 60, insert the following new Clause – "Proposal stage (1) This section applies where mediation under section 60 comes to an end by virtue of the occurrence of an event within section 60(6)(b), (c) or (d). (2) As soon as reasonably practicable after the occurrence of the event, the IFR must give notice to the two specified competition organisers. (3) A notice under subsection (2) must- (a) set out the question or questions for resolution, (b) specify the qualifying football season or seasons to which that question relates or those questions relate, (c) set out any findings in the IFR's most recent state of the game report that the IFR considers relevant to that question or those questions, (d) invite each of the two specified competition organisers to submit to the IFR and to each other a proposal as to how that question or those questions should be resolved, (e) require any proposal to be accompanied by supporting evidence (including evidence as to how the proposal addresses the findings set out under paragraph (c)), (f) specify the day on or before which proposals are to be submitted. (4) A question for resolution may be set out in a notice under subsection (2) only if it is the question, or one of the questions, for resolution remaining unresolved when the mediation mentioned in subsection (1) came to an end. (5) Where a notice under subsection (2) sets out a question for resolution that relates to relegation revenue (within the meaning given by section (Distribution orders)(9)), the notice must require the specified competition organisers to explain in a proposal how the proposal will promote the financial sustainability of clubs which operate teams relegated from a competition organised by the specified competition organiser distributing the relegation revenue. (6) Subsection (7) applies if, on or before the day specified by virtue of subsection (3)(f), a specified competition organiser submits to the IFR a proposal which the IFR considers is not a qualifying proposal. (7) The IFR may give both specified competition organisers a notice specifying a later day (falling not more than seven days after the end of the day specified by virtue of subsection (3)(f)) on or before which proposals are to be submitted. (8) As soon as reasonably practicable after - (a) the initial proposal deadline, or (b) (if earlier) the day on which the IFR considers that both specified competition organisers have submitted qualifying proposals, the IFR must give a notice under subsection (9) to the two specified competition organisers. (9) A notice under this subsection must- (a) state which of the two specified competition organisers (if any) has submitted a qualifying proposal before the initial proposal deadline, (b) invite each such specified competition organiser to– (i) confirm their proposal, or (ii) make any permitted modifications to their proposal, and submit the confirmed or modified proposal to the IFR and the other specified competition organiser, and (c) specify the day on or before which the confirmed or modified proposal is to be submitted. (10) The IFR may specify in a notice under subsection (2) or (9) the form and manner in which proposals and supporting evidence must be submitted. (11) In this section- (a) "the initial proposal deadline” means- (i) the day referred to in subsection (3)(f), or (ii) where the IFR gives a notice under subsection (7), the day specified in the notice; (b) a "qualifying proposal” means a proposal which– (i) explains how the question or questions for resolution should be resolved, and (ii) complies with the requirements imposed by virtue of subsection (3)(e) and (5) (if applicable); (c) a modification to a proposal is “permitted” unless it results in the proposal no longer being a qualifying proposal."

37

After Clause 60, insert the following new Clause- "Distribution orders (1) This section applies where the IFR has given a notice under section (Proposal stage)(9). (2) Before the end of the period of 60 days beginning with the day on which the notice under section (Proposal stage)(9) was given, the IFR must give the two specified competition organisers a notice of the distribution order it proposes to make. (3) The IFR may extend the period in subsection (2) by up to a further 14 days if it considers it appropriate to do so. (4) A notice under subsection (2) must- (a) give reasons for the proposed distribution order, (b) explain how the proposed order applies the principles mentioned in subsection (8), (c) explain how the proposed order addresses the findings set out under section (Proposal stage)(3)(c), (d) invite each of the two specified competition organisers to make representations about the proposed distribution order, (e) specify the period within which such representations may be made, and (f) specify the means by which they may be made, and the IFR must have regard to any representations which are duly made. (5) The period specified under subsection (4)(d) must be a period of not less than 14 days beginning with the day on which the notice is given. (6) As soon as reasonably practicable after the end of the period specified under subsection (4)(d), the IFR must make an order requiring relevant revenue to be distributed in a way that the IFR considers appropriate for the purpose of resolving the question or questions for resolution set out under section (Proposal stage)(3)(a) (a "distribution order"). (7) In making a distribution order the IFR must – (a) apply the principles mentioned in subsection (8), and (b) have regard to any proposal submitted under section (Proposal stage)(9)(b). See also section 7 (in particular the IFR’s general duty to exercise its functions in a way that advances one or more of its objectives and to have regard to various matters). (8) The principles referred to in subsection (7)(a) are that – (a) the distribution order should not place an undue burden on the commercial interests of either specified competition organiser, and (b) the distribution order should not result in a lower amount of relegation revenue being distributed to a club during the relevant period than would have been distributed to the club during that period had the order not been made. (9) For the purposes of subsection (8) – “relegation revenue” means revenue distributed by a specified competition organiser to a club in consequence of a team operated by the club being relegated from a specified competition organiser organised by the specified competition organiser; "relevant period", in relation to a distribution order, means the period of one year beginning with the final day of the first football season in respect of which relegation revenue would be distributed in pursuance of the order. (10) A distribution order – (a) must impose on the specified competition organisers such obligations as the IFR considers appropriate for the purpose of securing compliance with the requirements set out in the order, and (b) may, where a distribution agreement is in force between the specified competition organisers in relation to the same qualifying football season or seasons to which the order relates, provide for that agreement to have effect subject to provision contained in the order. (11) At the same time as making a distribution order, the IFR must give the two specified competition organisers a notice- (a) including a copy of the order, (b) giving reasons for the order, (c) explaining how the order applies the principles mentioned in subsection (8), (d) explaining how the order addresses the findings set out under section (Proposal stage)(3)(c), and (e) including information about the possible consequences under Part 8 of not complying with the order. (12) The IFR must, as soon as reasonably practicable after making a distribution order, publish the order or a summary of the order."

38

Page 50, line 26, leave out Clause 61

39

Page 51, line 22, leave out Clause 62

40

Clause 64, page 54, line 18, leave out “62(8)(b)” and insert “(Distribution orders)(10)(b)”

41

Clause 83, page 67, line 21, leave out “14” and insert “28”

42

Clause 83, page 67, line 25, leave out “14” and insert “28”

43

Clause 83, page 67, line 28, leave out “within” and insert “before the end of"

44

Clause 94, page 76, line 14, leave out from “to” to end of line 15 and insert “. (a) a provision of this Act which requires the IFR to consult another person; (b) the provision made by section 10(5)(a) and (b)."

45

Clause 94, page 76, line 18, leave out “carried out consultation” and insert “did anything"

46

Clause 94, page 76, line 20, leave out “consultation carried out” and insert “anything done"

47

Clause 94, page 76, line 21, leave out “consultation had been carried out” and insert “thing had been done"

48

Clause 94, page 76, line 23, leave out “consultation carried out” and insert “anything done"

49

Clause 101, page 80, line 11, leave out subsection (2)

50

Schedule 2, page 89, line 29, leave out “sections 61 and 82” and insert “section 82"

51

Schedule 2, page 91, line 41, at end insert - "(da) the function of deciding whether the resolution process should be triggered under section 59; (db) the function of making a distribution order under section (Distribution orders);"

52

Schedule 2, page 93, line 35, leave out “sections 61 and 82” and insert “section 82"

53

Schedule 5, page 103, line 18, after “specified” insert “from time to time by the IFR”

54

Schedule 8, page 109, line 14, leave out “a period of three months” and insert “so long as is necessary in all the circumstances"

55

Schedule 10, page 120, line 17, column 1, leave out “not to trigger” and insert “to trigger, or not to trigger,”

56

Schedule 10, page 120, line 17, column 2, leave out “a committee of the Expert Panel” and insert "the Board"

57

Schedule 10, page 120, line 19, column 2, leave out “a committee of the Expert Panel” and insert "the Board"

58

Schedule 10, page 120, leave out lines 21 and 22

59

Schedule 10, page 120, line 23, column 2, leave out “a committee of the Expert Panel” and insert "the Board"

60

Schedule 10, page 120, leave out lines 27 to 30

61

Schedule 10, page 120, leave out lines 35 and 36

62

Schedule 11, page 123, line 4, column 2, leave out “62(3)” and insert “(Distribution orders)(9)”

30

Clause 26, page 19, line 20, at end insert—
“(c) respects and promotes the protection of human rights and prevents modern slavery (as set out in section [Human rights and modern slavery considerations]).”

NC9

To move the following Clause—
“Prioritisation of competitions within English football
(1) This section applies where a regulated club is participating in a competition outside of English Football.
(2) Where the IFR considers that the regulated club’s participation in the competition is damaging to the heritage of English football, the IFR must take what measures it considers necessary to prevent that damage.
(3) Measures that the IFR might take include a direction to the club that it—
(a) prioritise any fixtures taking place in a competition within English football over those in the competition outside of English football;
(b) cease participation in the competition outside of English football.”

NC10

To move the following Clause—
“Player welfare
Within one year of the passing of this Act the Secretary of State must review how to improve the welfare of football players. This review should include consideration of—
(a) neurodegenerative diseases incurred by heading footballs;
(b) the number of games that footballers are required to play each season; and
(c) the impact on the welfare of current and former professional footballers as a result.”

NC11

To move the following Clause—
“Correspondence about the IFR
(1) The Secretary of State must publish any correspondence received by the Secretary of State from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) about the IFR’s exercise of its functions.
(2) The IFR must publish any correspondence it receives from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) about the exercise of its functions.”

This new clause would require correspondence between FIFA and UEFA and either the Secretary of State, or the IFR, with regards to the IFR’s regulatory functions, to be published.

NC12

To move the following Clause—
“Impact on Regulator of changes in Government administration
If the Department for Culture Media and Sport is abolished, or its functions in relation to football substantially relocated, the Government must automatically review the suitability of the continuation of the IFR and the impact that the abolition or relocation will have on the IFR.”

This new clause would require the Government to review the IFR in the instance that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport were abolished, or its functions substantially altered.

NC13

To move the following Clause—
“Neurodegenerative care scheme
(1) The IFR must establish and supervise a scheme aimed at providing a high standard of care and support to any person who has developed a neurodegenerative condition linked to their career in English football.
(2) The Secretary of State must make regulations setting out—
(a) minimum requirements for the scheme,
(b) a timescale for the scheme’s establishment, and
(c) arrangements and a timescale for a periodic review of the scheme.
(3) The IFR must ensure that, as a condition of organising any competition specified pursuant to section 2(3), all specified competition organisers jointly operate, manage and fund the scheme in accordance with subsections (4) to (8).
(4) For the purpose of operating, managing and funding the scheme, all of the specified competition organisers must form a Joint Coordinating Committee (“JCC”).
(5) Any current or former player who has at any time been registered as a professional footballer is eligible for the scheme.
(6) The scheme must provide care and financial support to any eligible person who suffers from a neurodegenerative condition which is deemed, pursuant to subsection (7)(a), to have been caused or contributed to by playing or training activities within English football.
(7) The JCC must, under the supervision of the IFR, appoint a panel of independent experts—
(a) to determine whether, on the balance of probabilities, a neurodegenerative condition of an eligible person has been caused or contributed to by playing or training activities within English football, and
(b) to determine the appropriate provision of care and financial support required in the case of each eligible person.
(8) The IFR must ensure that the JCC acts upon the panel’s determinations.
(9) Where—
(a) specified competition owners, through the JCC, cannot agree about the operation, management or funding of the scheme, or
(b) at any time, the scheme does not meet either—
(i) the aim under subsection (1), or
(ii) any requirements set out in regulations under subsection (2),
the Secretary of State may, having taken advice from the IFR, make a direction about the operation, management or funding of the scheme.”

NC14

To move the following Clause—
“Duty to vet financial investment in football clubs
(1) The IFR must review and approve all proposed financial investments in regulated clubs from funds which are located outside of the United Kingdom.
(2) A review under subsection (1) must include—
(a) assessing if any sources of revenue for such a fund is the result of money laundering;
(b) assessing if the owner of such a fund is charged with any breaches of UK or international law.
(3) If upon completing a review under subsection (1) the IFR has determined a source of revenue for a fund is the result of money laundering or the owner of a fund is in breach of UK or international law the IFR must direct the club to reject the investment.”

14

Clause 2, page 2, line 31, leave out subsection (3) and insert—
“(3) For the purposes of this Act a “specified competition” includes—
(a) the Premier League,
(b) the English Football League, and
(c) the National League.
(3A) The Secretary of State may by regulations made by statutory instrument subject to approval by both Houses of Parliament amend the competitions specified in section (3).”

This amendment would specify the leagues that are to be classed as “specified competitions” under Act.

29

Clause 6, page 5, line 14, at end insert—
“(d) to ensure that the care and support of those who have developed neurodegenerative conditions linked to their career in English football is a central part of its approach to football governance, and to establish and supervise the scheme provided for under section [Neurodegenerative care scheme].”

This amendment places an objective on the IFR to establish and supervise a scheme to provide care and support to those who have developed neurodegenerative conditions linked to their career in English football (see NC13).

25

Clause 7, page 5, line 27, at end insert—
“(d) conflicts with any regulations or rules of international football governing bodies, including FIFA and UEFA.”

This amendment requires the IFR to exercise its functions so as to avoid conflicts with the regulations and rules of international footballing bodies.

21

Clause 11, page 7, line 41, at end insert—
“(7) No football governance statement may have effect unless approved by resolution of both Houses of Parliament.”

This amendment would require the football governance statement to be approved by Parliament before it could have effect.

28

Clause 14, page 9, line 3, at end insert—
“(aa) the cumulative impact of the costs imposed on clubs through compliance with the IFR’s regulatory regime, and”

This amendment would require the IFR to include in the annual report an account of the financial costs imposed on clubs through its regulatory requirements on them.

26

Clause 17, page 11, line 27, leave out subsection (9) and insert—
“(9) The IFR must make the decision whether to grant a regulated club a provisional operating licence within the period of one month.
(10) The IFR may extend the period in subsection (9) by no more than two weeks if it requires more time to consider the application due to—
(a) unusual staffing pressures, or
(b) discrepancies or abnormalities with the application.
(11) If the IFR extends the period as per subsection (10), it must give a notice to the relevant club stating—
(a) that the period has been extended,
(b) the length of the extension, and
(c) the reasons for the extension.”

This amendment places a time limit of one month for the IFR to decide whether to grant a provisional operating license.

15

Clause 37, page 28, line 28, at end insert—
“(fa) whether the individual is a member of a proscribed organisation as per section (3) and schedule (2) of the Terrorism Act 2000.”

This amendment requires that IFR, in determining whether an owner or officer has the requisite honesty or integrity, to consider whether the person is a member of an organisation proscribed under the Terrorism Act 2000.

24

Clause 53, page 42, line 3, at end insert—
“(1A) But the IFR may not require a club with fewer than 10 full time equivalent employees to pay the IFR a levy in respect of a chargeable period during which the club is a licensed club.”

This amendment would exempt clubs with fewer than 10 full time equivalent employees from having to pay the levy.

18

Schedule 2, page 87, line 12, at end insert—
“(3A) Any political interests of, and political donations made by, the prospective chair of the Board, must all be declared as part of the appointments process, and published before the chair’s pre-appointment hearing with the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee.”

19

Schedule 2, page 87, line 37, at end insert—
“(5) No member may be appointed to the Board if they currently have any broadcast or media interests or any role in a television or media broadcast that relates to football.”

This amendment prohibits any person who currently has any interests or roles in a television or media broadcast that relates to football from being appointed to the Board.

23

Schedule 2, page 88, line 37, at end insert—
“(1A) But the number of persons in the employment of IFR (including any persons seconded to the IFR) must at no time exceed 50.”

22

Schedule 2, page 89, line 9, leave out subparagraph (3) and insert—
“(3) The IFR may pay a person appointed as the Chief Executive no more than £172,153 per annum.
(3A) Notwithstanding the remuneration of the Chief Executive Officer as per paragraph (3), the IFR must pay its employees such remuneration as may be determined by the non-executive members.”

This amendment limits the pay of the Chief Executive.

20

Schedule 2, page 93, line 5, at end insert—
“(4A) No member may be appointed to the Expert Panel if they currently have any broadcast or media interests or any role in a television or media broadcast that relates to football.”

This amendment prohibits any person who currently has any interests or roles in a television or media broadcast that relates to football from being appointed to the Expert Panel.

16

Schedule 4, page 99, line 37, at end insert—
“(f) the club’s political statements and positions.”

This amendment ensures that clubs have to engage their fans on the political statements a club might adopt.

27

Schedule 5, page 102, line 7, at end insert “including the club’s official charity.”

This amendment would make clear that the activities of a football club’s official charity can be counted towards it meeting the corporate governance code.

17

Schedule 5, page 102, line 13, leave out sub-paragraph (e)

This amendment removes the requirement for the corporate governance statement to cover what action the club is taking to improve equality, diversity and inclusion.

13

Schedule 5, page 102, line 33, at end insert—
“(1A) The IFR must ensure that the persons referred to in subsections 1(a) and 1(b) are representative of the majority of the club’s fanbase and represent the club’s key supporters’ groups.
(1B) If it is unclear which are a club’s key supporters’ groups the IFR must consult with the Football Supporter’s Association to determine which groups apply for the purposes of this paragraph.”

NC6

To move the following Clause—
“Financial abuse, mismanagement or fraud: protection etc
(1) The IFR must, in any strategy it publishes, set out measures aimed at achieving the financial abuse, mismanagement and fraud objective.
(2) Measures to be set out under subsection (1) must include oversight of—
(a) robust education for relevant players on matters relating to financial abuse, mismanagement and fraud,
(b) industry wide standards aimed at relevant players in relation to those matters, and
(c) an equitable system of support and redress for relevant players where they have been affected by those matters.
(3) In this section, a “relevant player” means a current or former player in English football who—
(a) has been a victim of financial abuse, mismanagement, or fraud, or
(b) is at risk of becoming a victim of financial abuse, mismanagement, or fraud.”

NC7

To move the following Clause—
“Human rights and modern slavery considerations
(1) When considering whether a person (“A”) satisfies the requirement in section 26(7)(c), the Regulator shall have regard to (among other things)—
(a) whether A has been complicit in any egregious or consistent violation of international human rights law, whether of any international human rights treaty, customary law, or other instrument,
(b) whether A has been convicted, cautioned or reprimanded or complicit in any egregious or consistent violation of domestic human rights legislation, including breaching provisions in the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 or equivalent national legislation,
(c) whether A has been subject to a Slavery and Trafficking Prevention Order,
(d) whether A has been found liable in a civil claim relating to a human rights violation,
(e) whether A has been convicted of an offence, cautioned or reprimanded for failing to comply with their human rights and modern slavery reporting and due diligence obligations under applicable domestic legislation,
(f) any representations made by A or the club in accordance with the notice.
(2) In subsection (1)—
(a) where A is a body corporate or other non-corporeal entity (including a government or nation state), the Regulator shall consider the actions of anyone who controls that body corporate or entity (and “control” shall have the meaning given in section 255 of the Companies Act 2006), and
(b) the Regulator shall have absolute discretion to determine whether conduct falls within any of the categories in paragraphs (a) to (d).
(3) In respect of subsection (1)(c) and (d), a risk of disrepute shall not be valid grounds for disqualification of any person if such disrepute would, in the reasonable opinion of the Regulator, be unfounded.
(4) In accordance with Schedule 2, Part 2, paragraph 15, the Regulator may establish a committee or committees to discharge its functions under this Clause.”

NC8

To move the following Clause—
“Duty to address ticketing market practices
Regulated clubs and competition organisers must take reasonable steps to—
(a) monitor practices in the secondary ticketing market that may lead to excessive price mark-ups or unauthorised resale;
(b) provide transparent information about ticket pricing and resale policies, including the face value of tickets; and
(c) provide official ticket exchange channels where reasonably practicable.”

12

Clause 6, page 5, line 14, at end insert—
“(d) to take responsibility for the protection, financial welfare, and safeguarding of current and former players involved in English football who—
(i) have been victims of financial abuse, mismanagement, or fraud, or
(ii) are at risk of becoming victims of financial abuse, mismanagement, or fraud, (referred to in this Act as “the financial abuse, mismanagement and fraud objective”).”

4

Clause 59, page 48, line 34, leave out “a” and insert “the”

This amendment corrects a grammatical error.

5

Clause 83, page 67, line 40, leave out “14” and insert “28”

This amendment increases the time period for the Board of the IFR to carry out an internal review of a reviewable decision from 14 to 28 days.

6

Clause 83, page 68, line 2, leave out “14” and insert “28”

This amendment increases the time period for a committee of the Expert Panel of the IFR to carry out an internal review of a reviewable decision from 14 to 28 days.

7

Clause 83, page 68, line 5, leave out “within” and insert “before the end of”

This amendment is to ensure consistency with the wording used in subsections (4) and (6) of clause 83.

NC2

To move the following Clause—
“Duty not to promote or engage in advertising and sponsorship related to gambling
A regulated club or English football competition must not promote or engage in advertising or sponsorship related to gambling.”

This new clause prevents regulated clubs and competitions from promoting or engaging in gambling advertising or sponsorship.

NC3

To move the following Clause—
“Free to air coverage
(1) The Independent Football Regulator must require that every season—
(a) at least ten Premier League football matches,
(b) the League Cup Final, and
(c) the Championship, League One and League Two playoff finals
are made available for live broadcast on free-to-air television channels in the United Kingdom.
(2) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a) the matches must include a representative selection across different clubs and times in the season, subject to reasonable considerations of scheduling and broadcasting logistics.
(3) In this section “free-to-air television” means a service that satisfies the qualifying conditions of such a service defined by Section 2 of the 1996 Communications Act.”

This new clause would mandate a minimum of ten Premier League matches, the League Cup Final and the Championship, League One and League Two playoff finals on free-to-air television channels.

NC4

To move the following Clause—
“Fan representation: mandatory golden share
(1) A licensed club must, as a condition of holding a licence under section 15, issue a non-transferable golden share to a recognised Supporters’ Trust or equivalent democratic fan organisation.
(2) The golden share must confer on its holder the right to veto any proposal by the club to—
(a) relocate the club’s home ground outside its current local authority area,
(b) change the club’s name,
(c) materially alter the club’s primary colours or badge, or
(d) enter into or withdraw from any competition not sanctioned by the Football Association, the Premier League, or the English Football League.
(3) A licensed club must—
(a) consult the holder of the golden share on any material changes to the club’s ownership, governance, or strategic direction,
(b) provide the holder with access to relevant financial and governance information reasonably required to fulfil its function, and
(c) facilitate structured and regular engagement between the club and the holder of the golden share.
(4) The Regulator must monitor compliance with this section and may—
(a) issue guidance to clubs and Supporters’ Trusts on the operation of the golden share,
(b) impose licence conditions or financial penalties for non-compliance, and
(c) take enforcement action where a club fails to uphold the rights associated with the golden share.
(5) In this section—
(a) “Supporters’ Trust” means a formally constituted, democratic, not-for-profit organisation that is recognised by the Regulator as representing the interests of a club’s supporters;
(b) “golden share” means a special share or equivalent legal instrument issued to a Supporters’ Trust, entitling its holder to the rights and protections described in this section.”

This new clause would give fans a veto on club proposals, exercised through a recognised Supporters’ Trust or equivalent democratic fan body.

NC5

To move the following Clause—
“Protection of assets of regulated clubs
(1) Where any of the following assets belong to a regulated club, the asset must not be removed from the club’s ownership or used as collateral for a secured loan—
(a) any stadium,
(b) any training facility,
(c) any trophies,
(d) any car park,
(e) any hotel.
(2) But subsection 1 does not apply to a car park or a hotel where—
(a) the regulated club can demonstrate to the IFR’s satisfaction that the asset is causing financial loss or poses a material risk to the club’s financial sustainability, and
(b) the IFR has provided prior written approval for the disposal of the asset or the use of the asset as collateral.
(3) Where the current owner of a regulated club owns any asset listed in subsection (1)(a) to (c), the owner may not sell the club unless the owner has inserted the asset into the club’s ownership structure.”

This new claus would ensure that the club assets listed above are recognised as the inalienable property of the club rather than the club’s owners.

8

Clause 46, page 39, line 5, at end insert—
“(c) in the case of a disposal under subsection (1)(a), it has taken reasonable steps to establish that the majority of the club’s fans domiciled in England and Wales approve of the disposal.”

9

Clause 46, page 39, line 5, at end insert—
“(6A) Before the IFR grants an approval under subsection (6) it must—
(a) consult the supporters of the body in question, the relevant competition organisers and persons representing the local community with which the body is associated, and
(b) have regard to the views expressed by those consulted.”

10

Schedule 5, page 100, line 26, at end insert—
“(e) an Asset of Community Value condition.”

This amendment adds the requirement to attach an Asset of Community Value condition to each club operating licence.

11

Schedule 5, page 103, line 20, at end insert—
“Asset of Community Value
11A The Asset of Community Value condition is a condition requiring a club to either—
(a) obtain and maintain Asset of Community Value status for its home ground; or
(b) incorporate into its Articles of Association a restriction which substantially mirrors the restrictions placed on Assets of Community Value under the Localism Act 2011,
and the Secretary of State may create regulations detailing further the implementation of the Asset of Community Value condition.”

The amendment defines the Asset of Community Value condition that clubs are required to obtain for their home ground and is consequential on Amendment 10.

4

Clause 59, page 48, line 34, leave out "a" and insert "the"

5

Clause 83, page 67, line 40, leave out "14" and insert "28"

6

Clause 83, page 68, line 2, leave out "14" and insert "28"

7

Clause 83, page 68, line 5, leave out “within” and insert "before the end of"

3

Clause 6, page 5, line 14, at end insert—
“(d) to ensure that the care and support of people who have developed neurodegenerative conditions linked to their career in English football forms part of any strategy published by the IFR, and to oversee an equitable and fair industry financial scheme to provide care for those people.”

NC1

To move the following Clause—
“Alcohol at football grounds
Within one year of the passing of this Act the Secretary of State must consult on lifting the ban on consuming alcohol in view of the pitch in the top five tiers of the men's game in England.”

1

Clause 10, page 7, line 6, at end insert—
“(d) an assessment of the impact that the IFR’s activities have had on the price of match tickets.”

This amendment would require the IFR to include in its state of the game report the impact that its regulatory activities have had on ticket prices.

2

Clause 14, page 9, line 3, at end insert—
“(aa) the impact that the IFR’s activities have had on the price of match tickets, and”

This amendment would require the IFR to include in its annual report the impact that its regulatory activities have had on ticket prices.

141

Clause 62, page 52, line 11, leave out from “means” to “in” in line 13 and insert “the first full football season in respect of which relegation revenue would be applicable”

NC24

To move the following Clause—
“Levy exemption procedure for clubs in administration
(1) The Secretary of State must make regulations establishing a procedure under which a regulated club that has entered administration may apply for an exemption from the levy provided for by section 53.
(2) The regulations under subsection (1) must include provision for the IFR to determine whether an exemption from the levy should be granted.
(3) Provision under subsection (2) must require the IFR—
(a) to take account of the circumstances under which the club entered administration, and
(b) only to grant an exemption from the levy if the IFR is satisfied that the owners of the club have not taken a decision to enter administration in order to secure an exemption from the levy.
(4) In this section, a club has “entered administration” if an administrator of the club has been appointed under paragraph 22 of Schedule B1 to the Insolvency Act 1986.”

This new clause requires the Secretary of State to establish a procedure for clubs in administration to apply for an exemption from the levy. The IFR would only be able to grant an exemption if satisfied that the club had not deliberately entered administration as a means of securing the exemption.

NC25

To move the following Clause—
“Youth and community projects: duty on the IFR
(1) The IFR must take steps to encourage regulated clubs to invest in youth and community projects.
(2) The IFR must, in pursuance of the duty in subsection (1), at least once a year report on the extent to which each regulated club has invested in youth and community projects.”

This new clause requires the Independent Football Regulator to take steps to encourage clubs to invest in youth and community projects, including through annual publication of a progress report.

80

Clause 57, page 47, line 9, after “organisers” insert “or by a regulated club”

81

Clause 57, page 47, line 19, leave out from “revenue” to “in” in line 21 and insert “received by one specified competition organiser or regulated club in or in respect of that season compared to the relevant revenue received by that specified competition organiser or regulated club”

82

Clause 57, page 47, line 29, after “organisers” insert “, or by any regulated club participating in a competition organised by one of those organisers,”

130

Clause 57, page 47, line 35, leave out subsection (6) and insert—
“(6) Condition 4 is met in relation to a qualifying football season if—
(a) a distribution agreement is in force between the two specified competition organisers in relation to the season,
(b) the distribution agreement has been in force for at least the applicable period (see subsections (7) and (8)), and
(c) no distribution order has effect in respect of the specified competition organisers in relation to the season.
(7) Where—
(a) the specified competition organisers have agreed (whether in the distribution agreement or otherwise) a period for the purposes of condition 4, and
(b) both of the organisers have notified the IFR of the period so agreed,
the applicable period is that period.
(8) In any other case, the applicable period is 5 years.”

128

Clause 57, page 47, line 38, leave out “five years” and insert “the applicable period (see subsections (7) and (8))”

129

Clause 57, page 47, line 41, at end insert—
“(7) Where—
(a) the specified competition organisers have agreed (whether in the distribution agreement or otherwise) a period for the purposes of condition 4, and
(b) both of the organisers have notified the IFR of the period so agreed,
the applicable period is that period.
(8) In any other case, the applicable period is five years.”

93

Clause 59, page 49, line 1, after “(c)” insert “has exercised any of the IFR’s other functions under this Act in order to resolve the question or questions for resolution and such question or questions remain unresolved, or”

125

Clause 62, page 51, line 35, leave out subsection (1)(c)

126

Clause 62, page 52, line 6, leave out subsection (3)

127

Clause 91, page 74, line 24, leave out subsection (3)(iii)

NC5

To move the following Clause—
“Opportunity for levy exemption for clubs below the Football League
(1) The Secretary of State must by regulations make provision for a process whereby a licensed club may apply for a full or partial exemption from the levy established under section 53 if—
(a) the club’s first men’s team competes in the National League or any lower tier of the English football pyramid, and
(b) the club demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the IFR, that paying the levy would pose a significant risk to its financial sustainability.
(2) The IFR must report annually on the number of exemptions granted and the rationale for each decision.”

This new clause allows clubs in National League North and National League South to apply for a levy exemption under specific circumstances.

NC6

To move the following Clause—
“Support to clubs
(1) The IFR shall provide reasonable and proportionate assistance to—
(a) regulated clubs seeking to obtain a provisional club licence;
(b) clubs with a provisional club licence seeking a full club licence; and
(c) unregulated clubs who are reasonably likely to become regulated clubs in the next football season.
(2) The IFR shall provide reasonable and proportionate assistance to regulated clubs in their efforts to continue to comply with the conditions of their provisional club licence or full club licence.
(3) This assistance may come in the form of—
(a) financial support;
(b) training;
(c) support staff; or
(d) temporary exemption from levy payments.”

This new clause will mandate a duty on the IFR to aid regulated clubs with compliance.

NC7

To move the following Clause—
“Duty not to promote or engage in advertising and sponsorship related to gambling
A regulated club or English football competition must not promote or engage in advertising or sponsorship related to gambling.”

This new clause prevents regulated clubs and competitions from promoting or engaging in gambling advertising or sponsorship.

NC8

To move the following Clause—
“Human rights and modern slavery considerations
(1) When considering whether a person (“A”) satisfies the requirement in section 26(7)(c), the Regulator shall have regard to (among other things)—
(a) whether A has been complicit in any egregious or consistent violation(s) of international human rights law, whether of any international human rights treaty, customary law, or other instrument,
(b) whether A has been convicted, cautioned or reprimanded or complicit in any egregious or consistent violation(s) of domestic human rights legislation, including breaching provisions in the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 or equivalent national legislation,
(c) whether A has been subject to a Slavery and Trafficking Prevention Order,
(d) whether A has been found liable in a civil claim relating to a human rights violation,
(e) whether A has been convicted of an offence, cautioned or reprimanded for failing to comply with their human rights and modern slavery reporting and due diligence obligations under applicable domestic legislation,
(f) any representations made by A or the club in accordance with the notice.
(2) In subsection (1)—
(a) where A is a body corporate or other non-corporeal entity (including a government or nation state), the Regulator shall consider the actions of anyone who controls that body corporate or entity (and “control” shall have the meaning given in section 255 of the Companies Act 2006). and
(b) the Regulator shall have absolute discretion to determine whether conduct falls within any of the categories in paragraphs (a) to (d).
(3) In respect of subsection (1)(c) and (d), a risk of disrepute shall not be valid grounds for disqualification of any person if such disrepute would, in the reasonable opinion of the Regulator, be unfounded.
(4) In accordance with Schedule 2, Part 2, paragraph 15, the Regulator may establish a committee or committees to discharge its functions under this Clause.”

This new clause would prohibit individuals with a record of human rights abuses from club ownership.

NC9

To move the following Clause—
“Free to air coverage
(1) The Independent Football Regulator must require that every season—
(a) at least ten Premier League football matches,
(b) the League Cup Final, and
(c) the Championship, League One and League Two playoff finals,
are made available for live broadcast on free-to-air television channels in the United Kingdom.
(2) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a) the matches must include a representative selection across different clubs and times in the season, subject to reasonable considerations of scheduling and broadcasting logistics.
(3) In this section “free-to-air television” means a service that satisfies the qualifying conditions of such a service defined by Section 2 of the 1996 Communications Act.”

This new clause would mandate a minimum of ten Premier League matches, the League Cup Final and the Championship, League One and League Two playoff finals on free-to-air television channels.

NC10

To move the following Clause—
“Fan representation: mandatory golden share
(1) A licensed club must, as a condition of holding a licence under section 15, issue a non-transferable golden share to a recognised Supporters’ Trust or equivalent democratic fan organisation.
(2) The golden share must confer on its holder the right to veto any proposal by the club to—
(a) relocate the club’s home ground outside its current local authority area,
(b) change the club’s name,
(c) materially alter the club’s primary colours or badge, or
(d) enter into or withdraw from any competition not sanctioned by The Football Association, the Premier League, or the English Football League.
(3) A licensed club must—
(a) consult the holder of the golden share on any material changes to the club’s ownership, governance, or strategic direction,
(b) provide the holder with access to relevant financial and governance information reasonably required to fulfil its function, and
(c) facilitate structured and regular engagement between the club and the holder of the golden share.
(4) The Regulator must monitor compliance with this section and may—
(a) issue guidance to clubs and Supporters’ Trusts on the operation of the golden share,
(b) impose licence conditions or financial penalties for non-compliance, and
(c) take enforcement action where a club fails to uphold the rights associated with the golden share.
(5) In this section—
“Supporters’ Trust” means a formally constituted, democratic, not-for-profit organisation that is recognised by the Regulator as representing the interests of a club’s supporters;
“golden share” means a special share or equivalent legal instrument issued to a Supporters’ Trust, entitling its holder to the rights and protections described in this section.”

This new clause would give fans a veto on club proposals, exercised through a recognised Supporters’ Trust or equivalent democratic fan body.

NC11

To move the following Clause—
“Protection of assets of regulated clubs
(1) Where any of the following assets belong to a regulated club, the asset must not be removed from the club’s ownership or used as collateral for a secured loan—
(a) any stadium,
(b) any training facility,
(c) any trophies,
(d) any car park,
(e) any hotel.
(2) But subsection 1 does not apply to a car park or a hotel where—
(a) the regulated club can demonstrate to the IFR’s satisfaction that the asset is causing financial loss or poses a material risk to the club’s financial sustainability, and
(b) the IFR has provided prior written approval for the disposal of the asset or the use of the asset as collateral.
(3) Where the current owner of a regulated club owns any asset listed in subsection (1)(a) to (c), the owner may not sell the club unless the owner has inserted the asset into the club’s ownership structure.”

This new clause would ensure that the club assets listed above are recognised as the inalienable property of the club rather than the club’s owners.

NC12

To move the following Clause—
“Duty not to stage home matches outside United Kingdom without approval
(1) A regulated club must not stage any home fixture in a competitive match at a venue outside the United Kingdom without the approval of the IFR.
(2) The IFR may only grant approval under subsection (1) if the fixture is not part of a specified competition.
(3) For the purposes of this section, a "home fixture" means any fixture where the club is designated as the home team by the rules of the relevant competition.”

This new clause would prevent a regulated club from staging a competitive home fixture outside of the United Kingdom. It will allow regulated clubs to stage non-competitive fixtures outside of the United Kingdom.

NC13

To move the following Clause—
“Televising of football matches of national interest
(1) The Communications Act 2003 is amended as follows.
(2) After Section 299 (categorisation of listed events) (2)(d) insert—
“(e) the Independent Football Regulator, established by the Football Governance Act 2024, in relation to televising of football matches between licensed football clubs.””

This new clause adds the IFR as a statutory consultee on the listing of sporting events for free-to-air coverage.

NC14

To move the following Clause—
“Incorporation of heritage restrictions in Articles of Association
(1) A regulated club must, within the time limit, ensure that the requirements in sections 48(4A) and 49(1) are incorporated into its Articles of Association.
(2) For the purposes of subsection (1), the time limit is the period of one year from the day on which this section comes into force, or such other period of time as the Regulator may direct in relation to a particular regulated club.
(3) Subsection (1) is fulfilled if the club's Articles of Association provide for even greater fan consultation than sections 48(4A) and 49(1) require.”

NC15

To move the following Clause—
“Requirement to notify the IFR of a change in fitness criteria
(1) Individuals or organisations associated with a regulated club must notify the IFR when they have evidence or information that a material change in circumstances has occurred which is relevant to whether an individual, who is an owner or officer of the club, meets the fitness criteria to perform the role as defined under subsections 26(7) and 26(8) of this Act.
(2) Individuals and organisations with a duty to notify the IFR under subsection (1) include (but are not limited to)—
(a) owners,
(b) club employees (including officers and board members),
(c) competition organisers in the regulator's scope,
(d) supporters’ trusts,
(e) the Football Supporters' Association,
(f) Fair Game.”

This new clause places a duty on specified individuals and organisations to notify the Independent Football Regulator (IFR) if they have evidence of a material change in circumstances affecting whether a club owner or officer meets the statutory fitness criteria under Clause 26 of the Bill.

NC16

To move the following Clause—
“Duty to consult fans on political statements
(1) A regulated club may not publish any political statements, political opinions, or issue an items with party political connotations unless it has taken reasonable steps to establish that such statements, opinions or items are supported by the majority of the club’s fans in England and Wales.
(2) A regulated club may not permit any officers or employees, when acting in an official capacity, of the club to engage in political activities or publish political statements or wear any item with political links unless it has taken reasonable steps to establish that such activities, statements, or items are supported by a majority of the club’s fans in England and Wales.”

This new clause would give fans a say on the political positions adopted by regulated football clubs.

NC17

To move the following Clause—
“Impact on Regulator of changes in Government administration
If the Department for Culture Media and Sport is abolished, or its functions in relation to football substantially relocated, the Government must automatically review the suitability of the continuation of the IFR and the impact that the abolition or relocation will have on the IFR.”

This new clause would require the Government to review the IFR in the instance that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport were abolished, or its functions substantially altered.

NC18

To move the following Clause—
“Correspondence about the IFR
(1) The Secretary of State must publish any correspondence received by the Secretary of State from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) about the IFR’s exercise of its functions.
(2) The IFR must publish any correspondence it receives from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) about the exercise of its functions.”

This new clause would require correspondence between FIFA and UEFA and either the Secretary of State, or the IFR, with regards to the IFR’s regulatory functions, to be published.

NC19

To move the following Clause—
“Alcohol at football grounds
Within one year of the passing of this Act the Secretary of State must consult on lifting the ban on consuming alcohol in view of the pitch in the top five tiers of the men's game in England.”

NC20

To move the following Clause—
“Player welfare
Within one year of the passing of this Act the Secretary of State must review how to improve the welfare of football players. This review should include consideration of—
(a) neurodegenerative diseases incurred by heading footballs;
(b) the number of games that footballers are required to play each season; and
(c) the impact on the welfare of current and former professional footballers as a result.”

NC21

To move the following Clause—
“IFR duty to provide information and support on golden shares
(1) Within 6 months of the passing of this Act the IFR must publish guidance for recognised Supporters’ Trusts or equivalent democratic fan organisations holding a golden share as specified in section [Fan representation: mandatory golden share].
(2) The guidance published under subsection (1) must explain the purpose of a golden share and advise on how holders of a golden share can engage with their regulated club when utilising the rights bestowed by the golden share.
(3) The IFR must also provide an information support service for holders of a golden share to contact for advice on utilising their golden share.”

This new clause adds a duty for the IFR to support fan organisations in the use of their golden share through advice services and guidance.

NC22

To move the following Clause—
“Consultation on changes to kick off times
(1) Within 6 months of the passing of this Act the IFR must conduct a consultation on changes to kick off times in English football.
(2) The consultation must consider—
(a) the availability of transport to and from fixtures with a change in kick off time to another time;
(b) the amount of notice given before a change in kick off time to another time;
(c) the impact of European football games mid-week kick offs on changes in kick off time to another time; and
(d) the welfare of players.
(3) As part of the consultation the IFR must consult—
(a) the Football Association;
(b) each specified competition organiser;
(c) fan groups;
(d) Premier League fan advisory boards; and
(e) such other persons as the IFR considers appropriate.
(4) With 6 months of commencing the consultation the IFR must publish a report on the consultation.”

This new clause requires the IFR to conduct a fan consultation on kick-off times within six months of the passing of the Act.

NC23

To move the following Clause—
“Duty to create emergency fund
(1) As a condition of purchase of a regulated club the new owner may, if required by the IFR, pay an amount equal to the club's quarterly forecast expenditure into an emergency fund (referred to in this section as “the fund”).
(2) Withdrawals cannot be made from the fund while the person who deposited the fund is the owner of the club.
(3) When a club's quarterly forecast expenditure increases the owner must increase their deposit into the fund to match the increased forecast.
(4) If an owner does not update the fund to match an increase in the club’s quarterly forecast expenditure the IFR may suspend the regulated club’s operating licence until such time as the required deposit into the fund has been made.
(5) When a club files for insolvency the owner abrogates all claim to the fund and the fund may be accessed to pay club salaries and day to day running costs.
(6) When the owner who deposited the fund sells the club they may withdraw the fund but the fund must first be used to repay any debts accrued during the time period they were the owner.”

This new clause gives the IFR an option to require new club owners to establish an emergency fund to provide for club operational costs such as player and staff wages in an emergency scenario.

95

Clause 1, page 1, line 4, leave out subsection (1) and insert—
“(1) The purpose of this Act is to protect the financial sustainability and success of English football.”

96

Clause 1, page 2, line 1, leave out subsection (3) and insert—
“(3) For the purposes of this Act, English football is sustainable if it—
(a) continues to meet the needs of present fans without compromising the ability of future generations of fans to enjoy and benefit from the club;
(b) continues to contribute to the economic and social welfare of the local communities with which regulated clubs are associated;
(c) increases TV viewership;
(d) increases overall match attendance;
(e) improves international sporting competitiveness.
(3A) English football meeting the requirement in subsection (3)(a) includes all clubs continuing to operate teams in club competitions in a way that represents the unique heritage of the club as recognised by its fans and respecting the interests of those fans.
(3B) English football meeting the requirement in subsection (3)(b) includes all regulated clubs continuing to have a positive impact on economic and social factors that contribute to the welfare of the local community. This includes, but is not limited to, direct or indirect positive effects on the income of local businesses, cultural enrichment, or the reputation of the local area.”

This amendment creates a more precise definition of the sustainability of English football.

132

Clause 2, page 2, line 31, leave out subsection (3) and insert—
“(3) For the purposes of this Act a “specified competition” includes—
(a) the Premier League,
(b) the English Football League, and
(c) the National League.
(3A) The Secretary of State may by regulations made by statutory instrument subject to approval by both Houses of Parliament amend the competitions specified in section (3).”

This amendment would specify the leagues that are to be classed as “specified competitions” under Act.

74

Clause 2, page 2, line 34, at end insert—
“(3B) The competitions specified by the Secretary of State must include the National League North and the National League South (but see section [Opportunity for levy exemption for clubs below the Football League] which provides for a process by which clubs in these competitions may apply for an exemption from the levy established under section 53).”

This amendment extends the scope of the regulator to National League North and National League South.

98

Clause 7, line 35, at end insert—
“(3A) The IFR may not redistribute revenue, income or any monies from one regulated club to another regulated club.”

This amendment prevents the IFR from redistributing any funds from one club to another.

97

Clause 7, page 5, line 27, at end insert—
“(d) conflicts with any regulations or rules of international football governing bodies, including FIFA and UEFA.”

This amendment requires the IFR to exercise its functions so as to avoid conflicts with the regulations and rules of international footballing bodies.

123

Clause 10, page 7, line 6, at end insert—
“(d) an assessment of the impact that the IFR’s activities have had on the price of match tickets.”

This amendment would require the IFR to include in its state of the game report the impact that its regulatory activities have had on ticket prices.

139

Clause 10, page 7, line 22, at end insert—
“(iia) supporters trusts, fan groups and individual fans;”

This amendment adds fans and fan organisations to the list of groups that the IFR must consult about a state of the game report.

113

Clause 11, page 7, line 41, at end insert—
“(7) No football governance statement may have effect unless approved by resolution of both Houses of Parliament.”

This amendment would require the football governance statement to be approved by Parliament before it could have effect.

122

Clause 14, page 9, line 3, at end insert—
“(aa) the impact that the IFR’s activities have had on the price of match tickets, and”

This amendment would require the IFR to include in its annual report the impact that its regulatory activities have had on ticket prices.

134

Clause 14, page 9, line 3, at end insert—
“(aa) the cumulative impact of the costs imposed on clubs through compliance with the IFR’s regulatory regime, and”

This amendment would require the IFR to include in the annual report an account of the financial costs imposed on clubs through its regulatory requirements on them.

99

Clause 16, page 10, line 10, leave out subsection (c)

This amendment prevents the IFR from requiring information from clubs in the other than the personnel statement and strategic business plan specified by the Act, when applying for a provisional operating license.

100

Clause 16, page 10, line 25, leave out subsection (b)

This amendment prevents the IFR from requiring information in the strategic business plan not specified by the Act.

101

Clause 17, page 11, line 27, leave out subsection (9) and insert—
“(9) The IFR must make the decision whether to grant a regulated club a provisional operating licence within the period of one month.
(10) The IFR may extend the period in subsection (9) by no more than two weeks if it requires more time to consider the application due to—
(a) unusual staffing pressures, or
(b) discrepancies or abnormalities with the application.
(11) If the IFR extends the period as per subsection (10), it must give a notice to the relevant club stating—
(a) that the period has been extended,
(b) the length of the extension, and
(c) the reasons for the extension.”

This amendment places a time limit of one month for the IFR to decide whether to grant a provisional operating license.

106

Clause 19, page 13, line 19, at end insert—
“(c) inviting the club to make representations about the proposed revocation, and
(d) specifying the means by which, and the period within which, such representations must be made, which must be a period of not less than one month beginning with the day on which the notice under subsection (3) is given.”

This amendment allows clubs to make representations about the proposed revocation of their operating license.

107

Clause 22, page 14, line 35, leave out subsection (a)

This amendment prevents the IFR from being able to set licence conditions relating to internal controls.

108

Clause 22, page 14, line 37, leave out subsection (c)

This amendment prevents the IFR from being able to set licence conditions relating to the overall expenditure of a club.

109

Clause 22, page 15, line 12, leave out subsection (5)

This amendment removes the power of the Secretary of State to amend the discretionary licence conditions by regulations.

75

Clause 26, page 19, line 20, at end insert—
“(c) respects and promotes the protection of human rights and prevents modern slavery (as set out in section [Human rights and modern slavery considerations]).”

This amendment is linked to NC8.

110

Clause 37, page 28, line 28, at end insert—
“(fa) whether the individual is a member of a proscribed organisation as per section (3) and schedule (2) of the Terrorism Act 2000.”

This amendment requires that IFR, in determining whether an owner or officer has the requisite honesty or integrity, to consider whether the person is a member of an organisation proscribed under the Terrorism Act 2000.

94

Clause 43, page 34, line 38, at end insert—
“(e) following the revocation by the IFR of the club’s operating licence under clause 19 or under paragraph 9 of Part 1 of Schedule 9.”

87

Clause 46, page 38, line 26, leave out first “home ground” and insert “specified properties”

88

Clause 46, page 38, line 26, leave out second “home ground” and insert “specified properties”

89

Clause 46, page 38, line 27, leave out “home ground” and insert “specified properties”

90

Clause 46, page 38, line 28, leave out “home ground” and insert “specified properties”

83

Clause 46, page 39, line 2, at end insert—
“(ii) in the case of the home ground and training ground, it is satisfied that there are suitable plans in place to ensure the club’s continued long-term use of the home ground or training ground or to secure an alternative home ground or training ground for the next football season;
(iii) in the case of a home ground, it is satisfied that any alternative under sub-paragraph (ii) will have been actively approved by the club’s fans domiciled in England and Wales if any of the following non-exhaustive factors represent a significant upheaval of the connection between the fans of a club and the club: proximity to home ground, proximity to other clubs' grounds, journey time for fans and any other factors that the Regulator deems relevant;”

84

Clause 46, page 39, line 5, at end insert—
“(c) in the case of a disposal under subsection (1)(a), it has taken reasonable steps to establish that the majority of the club’s fans domiciled in England and Wales approve of the disposal.”

85

Clause 46, page 39, line 5, at end insert—
“(6A) Before the IFR grants an approval under subsection 6 it must—
(a) consult the supporters of the body in question, the relevant competition organisers and persons representing the local community with which the body is associated, and
(b) have regard to the views expressed by those consulted.”

86

Clause 46, page 39, line 11, leave out subsection (10) and insert—
“(10) In this section, “specified properties”—
(a) in relation to a body that is a regulated club, means the ground at which a relevant team operated by it customarily plays its home matches, the property at which a relevant team customarily trains and any other properties that make up a more than negligible part of the relevant team’s operations;
(b) in relation to a body that is a formerly regulated club, means (immediately before it ceased to be a regulated club) the ground at which a relevant team operated by it customarily played its home matches, the property at which a relevant team customarily trained and any other properties that make or made up a more than negligible part of the relevant team’s operations.”

91

Clause 48, page 40, line 18, at end insert—
“(e) if the arrangements would represent a significant upheaval of the connection between the fans of a club domiciled in England and Wales and the club (taking into account the following non-exhaustive factors: proximity to home ground, proximity to other clubs' grounds, journey time for fans and any other factors that the IFR deems relevant) the club’s fans have actively approved the arrangements.
(4A) In order for the Regulator to be satisfied with subsection (4)(b), a regulated club must take reasonable steps to establish that the majority of the club’s fans domiciled in England and Wales do not consider the arrangements to constitute significant harm to the heritage of the club.”

140

Clause 49, page 40, line 31 at end insert—
“(1A) A regulated club must notify the IFR if it is considering making any material changes under subsection (1) and the IFR must monitor the reasonable steps taken to independently establish that the changes are supported by a majority of the club’s fans.”

This amendment would require the IFR to take steps to independently oversee a club’s fan consultation process on the material changes specified.

92

Clause 49, page 40, line 33, leave out "approved by the Football Association" and insert “supported by a majority of the club’s fans domiciled in England and Wales.”

111

Clause 49, page 40, line 33, at end insert “and a majority of the club’s fans”

133

Clause 53, page 42, line 3, at end insert—
“(1A) But the IFR may not require a club with fewer than 10 full time equivalent employees to pay the IFR a levy in respect of a chargeable period during which the club is a licensed club.”

This amendment would exempt clubs with fewer than 10 full time equivalent employees from having to pay the levy.

105

Clause 53, page 42, line 42, at end insert—
“(6A) Once the IFR has established a levy under subsection (1) and made the required payments under section 96, the IFR must only fund its functions under this Act through its own revenue streams.
(6B) For the purposes of subsection (6A) the IFR’s “own revenue streams” are any amounts payable to the IFR from regulated clubs under subsection (1).”

This amendment requires the IFR to be self-funding through the industry levy, but after it has paid its initial costs and the Secretary of State’s establishment costs to the Treasury.

102

Clause 54, page 44, line 7, leave out subsection (2)

This amendment would remove the ability for the IFR not to consult on changes to the levy rules if the IFR considered them to be minor.

103

Clause 54, page 44, line 10, leave out “As soon as is reasonably practicable” and insert “Six months”

The amendment requires the IFR to publish levy rules six months before the chargeable period.

76

Clause 56, page 45, line 39, after “organisers” insert “or by a regulated club”

124

Clause 56, page 46, line 3, leave out subsection (2) and insert—
“(2) In this Part, revenue received by a specified competition organiser is “relevant revenue” if—
(a) it is revenue received as a result of the sale or acquisition of rights to exploit the broadcasting of football matches included in a competition organised by the specified competition organiser, and
(b) it is not revenue that the specified competition organiser distributes to a club by virtue of a team operated by the club being relegated from a competition organised by the specified competition organiser.”

77

Clause 56, page 46, line 4, after “organiser” insert “or directly received by a regulated club”

78

Clause 56, page 46, line 17, after “organiser” insert “or a regulated club”

79

Clause 56, page 46, line 24, after “organisers” insert “or by any club participating in a competition organised by one of those organisers”

117

Schedule 2, page 87, line 12, at end insert—
“3A Any political interests of, and political donations made by, the prospective chair of the Board, must all be declared as part of the appointments process, and published before the chair’s pre-appointment hearing with the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee.”

This amendment would ensure that the political interests of the Secretary of State’s preferred candidate for the Chair are made public before the appointment is confirmed.

118

Schedule 2, page 87, line 37, at end insert—
(5)No member may be appointed to the Board if they currently have any broadcast or media interests or any role in a television or media broadcast that relates to football.”

This amendment prohibits any person who currently has any interests or roles in a television or media broadcast that relates to football from being appointed to the Board.

114

Schedule 2, page 88, line 3, at end insert “including the Chair.”

This amendment makes it explicit that there must be a system for the declaration and relevant interests of the Chair of the Board.

115

Schedule 2, page 88, line 6, at end insert—
(3)“relevant interest” will always include donations to political parties.”

This amendment makes it clear that political donations should be declared as a relevant interest.

116

Schedule 2, page 88, line 6, at end insert—
“7A The Chair of the Board must not
(a) be a member of a political party,
(b) canvass on behalf of a political party or on behalf of a candidate for election to the House of Commons, European Parliament, the Scottish Parliament or Welsh Assembly or local authorities, or
(c) speak to the public at large or to a section of the public with the apparent intention of affecting public support for a political party.”

This amendment would require the Chair not to be a member of a political party, or to publicly campaign for, or demonstrate support for, a political party.

138

Schedule 2, page 88, line 37, at end insert—
“(1A) But the number of persons in the employment of IFR (including any persons seconded to the IFR) must at no time exceed 50.”

120

Schedule 2, page 89, line 9, leave out subparagraph (3) and insert—
(3)The IFR may pay a person appointed as the Chief Executive no more than £172,153 per annum.
(3A)Notwithstanding the remuneration of the Chief Executive Officer as per paragraph (3), the IFR must pay its employees such remuneration as may be determined by the non-executive members.”

This amendment limits the pay of the Chief Executive.

119

Schedule 2, page 93, line 2, at end insert—
“4A No member may be appointed to the Expert Panel if they currently have any broadcast or media interests or any role in a television or media broadcast that relates to football.”

This amendment prohibits any person who currently has any interests or roles in a television or media broadcast that relates to football from being appointed to the Expert Panel.

121

Schedule 2, page 94, line 34, at end insert—
“31A (1)The Expert Panel must publish any decision that it makes relating to any of its functions under this Act.
(2)Any decision published by the Expert Panel must include—
(a)the number of members of the Expert Panel who supported the decision;
(b)the number of members of the Expert Panel who did not support the decision;
(c)the reasons for the decision;
(d)the reasons why those who did not support the decision decided not to.
(3)The Expert Panel must publish any records of its committee proceedings as recorded under paragraph (30).”

This amendment requires the Expert Panel to exercise its functions transparently.

104

Schedule 4, page 99, line 31, at end insert—
“(f) the club’s political statements and positions.”

This amendment ensures that clubs have to engage their fans on the political statements a club might adopt.

112

Schedule 4, page 99, line 34, leave out “crest” and insert “badge.”

135

Schedule 5, page 101, line 20, leave out sub-subparagraph (ii)

137

Schedule 5, page 102, line 2, at end insert “including the club’s official charity.”

This amendment would make clear that the activities of a football club’s official charity can be counted towards it meeting the corporate governance code.

136

Schedule 5, page 102, line 7, leave out sub-paragraph (e)

This amendment removes the requirement for the corporate governance statement to cover what action the club is taking to improve equality, diversity and inclusion.

131

Schedule 5, page 103, line 16, at end insert—
“Agents fees
11A (1)An agents fees condition is a condition requiring a club employing an agent to cap their fees.
(2)The agents fee cap will be set by Regulations subject to approval by both Houses.”

29

Clause 57, page 47, line 12, leave out “the application relates” and insert “the question or questions for resolution mentioned in subsection (1) relate”

This amendment provides that a specified competition organiser may only apply under clause 57 if the conditions in clause 57 are met in relation to the qualifying football season or seasons to which the question or questions mentioned in subsection (1) of clause 57 relate.

30

Clause 58, page 48, line 7, at end insert—
“(za) set out details of the question or questions for resolution mentioned in section 57(1) to which it is intended the application will relate,”

This amendment provides that a notification under clause 59(1)(a) must set out details of the question or questions for resolution to which it is intended the application will relate.

31

Clause 58, page 48, line 8, leave out “the application relates” and insert “that question relates or those questions relate”

This amendment provides that a notification under clause 59(1)(a) must specify the qualifying football season or season to which the question or questions for resolution relate.

32

Clause 58, page 48, line 12, leave out paragraph (c)

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 30.

33

Clause 58, page 48, line 22, at end insert—
“(za) set out details of the question or questions for resolution mentioned in section 57(1) to which the application relates,”

This amendment provides that an application under clause 57 must set out details of the question or questions for resolution to which the application relates.

34

Clause 58, page 48, line 23, leave out “the application relates” and insert “that question relates or those questions relate”

This amendment provides that the application under clause 57 must specify the qualifying football season or season to which the question or questions for resolution relate.

35

Clause 58, page 48, line 27, leave out paragraph (c)

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 33.

36

Clause 59, page 48, line 33, leave out “the qualifying football season or seasons” and insert “one or more of the questions for resolution”

This amendment provides that the IFR must decide whether the resolution process should be triggered in relation to one or more of the questions for resolution to which the application under clause 57 relates.

37

Clause 59, page 48, line 33, after “relates” insert “(or a modified version of one or more of those questions)”

This amendment provides that the IFR may decide that the resolution process should be triggered in relation to a modified version of one or more of the questions for resolution set out in the application under clause 57.

38

Clause 59, page 48, line 36, leave out “qualifying football season” and insert “question or questions for resolution”

This amendment provides that the IFR must be satisfied that the conditions in clause 59(2) are met before deciding to trigger the process in relation to a question or questions for resolution.

39

Clause 59, page 48, line 38, leave out “that season” and insert “each season to which the question relates or the questions relate”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 38.

40

Clause 59, page 48, line 41, after “triggered” insert “in relation to the question or questions for resolution”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 38.

41

Clause 59, page 49, line 4, after “triggered” insert “in relation to one or more of the questions for resolution”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 38.

42

Clause 59, page 49, line 10, at end insert—
“(4A) Where the IFR is minded that the resolution process should be triggered, the IFR must consult the Football Association on the question or questions for resolution in relation to which it is minded to trigger the process.”

This amendment requires the IFR to consult the Football Association on the question or questions for resolution in relation to which it is minded to trigger the process.

43

Clause 59, page 49, line 15, at end insert—
“(zi) the question or questions for resolution in relation to which the IFR is triggering the resolution process,”

This amendment provides that the notice under clause 59(5) must set out the question or questions for resolution in relation to which the IFR is triggering the resolution process.

44

Clause 59, page 49, line 16, leave out “the resolution process relates” and insert “that question relates or those questions relate”

This amendment provides that the notice under clause 59(5) must set out the qualifying football season or seasons to which the question or questions for resolution relate.

45

Clause 59, page 49, line 18, leave out sub-paragraph (ii)

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 43.

46

Clause 59, page 49, line 18, at end insert—
“(iia) how the IFR has taken account of any representations, copies of which accompanied the application under section 57 by virtue of section 58(5)(d), in setting out that question or those questions, and”

This amendment requires the IFR to set out in a notice under clause 59(5)(b) how it has taken account of any representations when setting out the question or questions in relation to which it is triggering the resolution process.

47

Clause 59, page 49, line 20, leave out “the question or questions for resolution” and insert “that question or those questions”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 43.

48

Clause 59, page 49, line 21, at end insert—
“(5A) Where any of the questions for resolution set out in the notice differ from those to which the application made under section 57 relates, the notice must set out the extent of, and reasons for, those differences.”

This amendment requires the IFR to set out the extent of, and reasons for, any differences between the question or questions for resolution set out in a notice under clause 59(5)(b)(ii) and the question or questions for resolution set out in an application under clause 57.

49

Clause 60, page 50, line 4, after “resolution” insert “set out in a notice under section 59(5)(b)(zi)”

This amendment clarifies that the question or questions for resolution subject to the mediation process are those set out in a notice under clause 59(5)(b)(zi).

50

Clause 60, page 50, line 6, leave out “the question or questions for resolution” and insert “that question or those questions”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 49.

51

Clause 60, page 50, line 15, after “resolution” insert “set out in a notice under section 59(5)(b)(zi)”

This amendment clarifies that the question or questions for resolution subject to the mediation process are those set out in a notice under clause 59(5)(b)(zi).

52

Page 50, line 26, leave out Clause 61

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC3.

53

Page 51, line 22, leave out Clause 62

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC4.

54

Clause 64, page 54, line 18, leave out “62(8)(b)” and insert “(Distribution orders)(10)(b)”

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC4.

65

Schedule 8, page 109, line 14, leave out “a period of three months” and insert “so long as is necessary in all the circumstances”

This amendment provides that information obtained by the IFR under a warrant may be retained for so long as is necessary in all the circumstances.

66

Schedule 10, page 120, line 17, column 1, leave out “not to trigger” and insert “to trigger, or not to trigger,”

This amendment includes a decision to trigger the resolution process in the list of reviewable decisions set out in Schedule 10.

67

Schedule 10, page 120, line 17, column 2, leave out “a committee of the Expert Panel” and insert “the Board”

This amendment provides that the applicable reviewer for a decision to trigger the resolution process is the Board rather than a committee of the Expert Panel.

68

Schedule 10, page 120, line 19, column 2, leave out “a committee of the Expert Panel” and insert “the Board”

This amendment provides that the applicable reviewer for a decision to make a distribution order under NC4 is the Board rather than a committee of the Expert Panel.

70

Schedule 10, page 120, leave out lines 21 and 22

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC4.

71

Schedule 10, page 120, line 23, column 2, leave out “a committee of the Expert Panel” and insert “the Board”

This amendment provides that the applicable reviewer for a decision to revoke a distribution order under clause 63 is the Board rather than a committee of the Expert Panel.

69

Schedule 10, page 120, leave out lines 27 to 30

This amendment removes a decision to conduct an investigation under clause 68 and not to accept a commitment in lieu under clause 70 from the list of reviewable decisions in Schedule 10.

72

Schedule 10, page 120, leave out lines 35 and 36

This amendment removes a decision to exercise the power to ask questions under paragraph 2 of Schedule 8 from the list of reviewable decisions in Schedule 10.

73

Schedule 11, page 123, line 4, column 2, leave out “62(3)” and insert “(Distribution orders)(9)”

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC4.

55

Clause 94, page 76, line 14, leave out from “to” to end of line 15 and insert “—
(a) a provision of this Act which requires the IFR to consult another person;
(b) the provision made by section 10(5)(a) and (b).”

This amendment includes the provision made by clause 10(5)(a) and (b) in clause 94.

56

Clause 94, page 76, line 18, leave out “carried out consultation” and insert “did anything”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 55.

57

Clause 94, page 76, line 20, leave out “consultation carried out” and insert “anything done”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 55.

58

Clause 94, page 76, line 21, leave out “consultation had been carried out” and insert “thing had been done”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 55.

59

Clause 94, page 76, line 23, leave out “consultation carried out” and insert “anything done”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 55.

60

Clause 101, page 80, line 11, leave out subsection (2)

This amendment would remove the privilege amendment inserted by the Lords.

NC3

To move the following Clause—
“Proposal stage
(1) This section applies where mediation under section 60 comes to an end by virtue of the occurrence of an event within section 60(6)(b), (c) or (d).
(2) As soon as reasonably practicable after the occurrence of the event, the IFR must give notice to the two specified competition organisers.
(3) A notice under subsection (2) must—
(a) set out the question or questions for resolution,
(b) specify the qualifying football season or seasons to which that question relates or those questions relate,
(c) set out any findings in the IFR’s most recent state of the game report that the IFR considers relevant to that question or those questions,
(d) invite each of the two specified competition organisers to submit to the IFR and to each other a proposal as to how that question or those questions should be resolved,
(e) require any proposal to be accompanied by supporting evidence (including evidence as to how the proposal addresses the findings set out under paragraph (c)),
(f) specify the day on or before which proposals are to be submitted.
(4) A question for resolution may be set out in a notice under subsection (2) only if it is the question, or one of the questions, for resolution remaining unresolved when the mediation mentioned in subsection (1) came to an end.
(5) Where a notice under subsection (2) sets out a question for resolution that relates to relegation revenue (within the meaning given by section (Distribution orders)(9)), the notice must require the specified competition organisers to explain in a proposal how the proposal will promote the financial sustainability of clubs which operate teams relegated from a competition organised by the specified competition organiser distributing the relegation revenue.
(6) Subsection (7) applies if, on or before the day specified by virtue of subsection (3)(f), a specified competition organiser submits to the IFR a proposal which the IFR considers is not a qualifying proposal.
(7) The IFR may give both specified competition organisers a notice specifying a later day (falling not more than seven days after the end of the day specified by virtue of subsection (3)(f)) on or before which proposals are to be submitted.
(8) As soon as reasonably practicable after—
(a) the initial proposal deadline, or
(b) (if earlier) the day on which the IFR considers that both specified competition organisers have submitted qualifying proposals,
the IFR must give a notice under subsection (9) to the two specified competition organisers.
(9) A notice under this subsection must—
(a) state which of the two specified competition organisers (if any) has submitted a qualifying proposal before the initial proposal deadline,
(b) invite each such specified competition organiser to—
(i) confirm their proposal, or
(ii) make any permitted modifications to their proposal,
and submit the confirmed or modified proposal to the IFR and the other specified competition organiser, and
(c) specify the day on or before which the confirmed or modified proposal is to be submitted.
(10) The IFR may specify in a notice under subsection (2) or (9) the form and manner in which proposals and supporting evidence must be submitted.
(11) In this section—
(a) “the initial proposal deadline” means—
(i) the day referred to in subsection (3)(f), or
(ii) where the IFR gives a notice under subsection (7), the day specified in the notice;
(b) a “qualifying proposal” means a proposal which—
(i) explains how the question or questions for resolution should be resolved, and
(ii) complies with the requirements imposed by virtue of subsection (3)(e) and (5) (if applicable);
(c) a modification to a proposal is “permitted” unless it results in the proposal no longer being a qualifying proposal.”

This new clause substitutes clause 61 with a new clause providing for a revised procedure for the proposal stage of the resolution process.

NC4

To move the following Clause—
“Distribution orders
(1) This section applies where the IFR has given a notice under section (Proposal stage)(9).
(2) Before the end of the period of 60 days beginning with the day on which the notice under section (Proposal stage)(9) was given, the IFR must give the two specified competition organisers a notice of the distribution order it proposes to make.
(3) The IFR may extend the period in subsection (2) by up to a further 14 days if it considers it appropriate to do so.
(4) A notice under subsection (2) must—
(a) give reasons for the proposed distribution order,
(b) explain how the proposed order applies the principles mentioned in subsection (8),
(c) explain how the proposed order addresses the findings set out under section (Proposal stage)(3)(c),
(d) invite each of the two specified competition organisers to make representations about the proposed distribution order,
(e) specify the period within which such representations may be made, and
(f) specify the means by which they may be made,
and the IFR must have regard to any representations which are duly made.
(5) The period specified under subsection (4)(d) must be a period of not less than 14 days beginning with the day on which the notice is given.
(6) As soon as reasonably practicable after the end of the period specified under subsection (4)(d), the IFR must make an order requiring relevant revenue to be distributed in a way that the IFR considers appropriate for the purpose of resolving the question or questions for resolution set out under section (Proposal stage)(3)(a) (a “distribution order”).
(7) In making a distribution order the IFR must—
(a) apply the principles mentioned in subsection (8), and
(b) have regard to any proposal submitted under section (Proposal stage)(9)(b).
See also section 7 (in particular the IFR’s general duty to exercise its functions in a way that advances one or more of its objectives and to have regard to various matters).
(8) The principles referred to in subsection (7)(a) are that—
(a) the distribution order should not place an undue burden on the commercial interests of either specified competition organiser, and
(b) the distribution order should not result in a lower amount of relegation revenue being distributed to a club during the relevant period than would have been distributed to the club during that period had the order not been made.
(9) For the purposes of subsection (8)—
“relegation revenue” means revenue distributed by a specified competition organiser to a club in consequence of a team operated by the club being relegated from a specified competition organised by the specified competition organiser;
“relevant period” , in relation to a distribution order, means the period of one year beginning with the final day of the first football season in respect of which relegation revenue would be distributed in pursuance of the order.
(10) A distribution order—
(a) must impose on the specified competition organisers such obligations as the IFR considers appropriate for the purpose of securing compliance with the requirements set out in the order, and
(b) may, where a distribution agreement is in force between the specified competition organisers in relation to the same qualifying football season or seasons to which the order relates, provide for that agreement to have effect subject to provision contained in the order.
(11) At the same time as making a distribution order, the IFR must give the two specified competition organisers a notice—
(a) including a copy of the order,
(b) giving reasons for the order,
(c) explaining how the order applies the principles mentioned in subsection (8),
(d) explaining how the order addresses the findings set out under section (Proposal stage)(3)(c), and
(e) including information about the possible consequences under Part 8 of not complying with the order.
(12) The IFR must, as soon as reasonably practicable after making a distribution order, publish the order or a summary of the order.”

This new clause substitutes clause 62 with a new clause providing that the IFR may make a distribution order that distributes relevant revenue in the way that the IFR considers most appropriate for the purpose of resolving the question or questions for resolution.

18

Clause 53, page 42, line 8, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

19

Clause 53, page 42, line 13, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

20

Clause 53, page 42, line 14, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

21

Clause 53, page 42, line 19, leave out “leviable”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

22

Clause 53, page 42, line 26, leave out subsection (4)

This amendment removes the definition of “leviable functions” so that the IFR may charge a levy for all of its functions under the Act.

23

Clause 53, page 43, line 2, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

24

Clause 53, page 43, line 4, leave out “its leviable” and insert “those”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

25

Clause 54, page 44, line 13, leave out “leviable functions” and insert “functions under this Act”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

26

Clause 54, page 44, line 14, leave out “its leviable” and insert “those”

This amendment is consequential on Amendment 22.

27

Clause 56, page 46, line 27, leave out “means an order under section 62(1) or (3)” and insert “has the meaning given by section (Distribution orders)(6)”

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC4.

28

Clause 56, page 46, line 42, leave out subsection (7)

This amendment removes the definition of “the question or questions for resolution” which is now superfluous.

61

Schedule 2, page 89, line 29, leave out “sections 61 and 82” and insert “section 82”

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC3.

62

Schedule 2, page 91, line 41, at end insert—
“(da) the function of deciding whether the resolution process should be triggered under section 59;
(db) the function of making a distribution order under section (Distribution orders);”

This amendment provides that the Board may only delegate the functions of deciding whether the resolution process should be triggered under clause 59 or making a distribution order under NC4 to another committee of the Board.

63

Schedule 2, page 93, line 35, leave out “sections 61 and 82” and insert “section 82”

This amendment is consequential on the insertion of NC3.

64

Schedule 5, page 103, line 18, after “specified” insert “from time to time by the IFR”

This amendment clarifies that the IFR may specify certain elements of the mandatory licence conditions from time to time.

3

Clause 61, page 50, line 40, leave out "require any final proposal to be accompanied by supporting evidence" and insert “require any final proposal to—
(i) be accompanied by supporting evidence;
(ii) be consistent with the resolution of any relevant issues identified in the Regulator's most recently published State of the Game report;
(iii) give effect to the views of any relevant specified competition organiser which has not been invited pursuant to clause 61(4)(c) to submit to the committee a final proposal; and
(iv) advance the Regulator's objectives in section 6, consistent with its general duties and Regulatory principles in sections 7 and 8.”

This amendment would set additional requirements to accompany any final proposal for the resolution process.

4

Clause 62, page 52, line 5, at end insert—
“(d) must address to the satisfaction of the Regulator any issues identified by the Regulator’s most recently published State of the Game report.”

This amendment would add the principle that the final proposal in the resolution process should address any issues identified by the Regulator’s most recently published State of the Game report.

5

Clause 62, page 52, line 43, at end insert—
“(8A) Where subsection (1)(c), (4)(b), or (5) applies, the committee must make an order requiring the relevant revenue to be distributed in accordance with a proposal of its own that is consistent with the principles in subsection (2) on or before the last day of the period of 28 days beginning with the final proposal deadline.”

This amendment would require the IFR, under the circumstances specified in the amendment, to make an order requiring the relevant revenue to be distributed in accordance with its own proposal.

11

Clause 92, page 75, line 17, after “functions” insert “or give rise to the perception that said person’s functions have been prejudicially affected, including (but not limited to) a situation in which a person is—
(a) employed by or engaged as a consultant by any specified competition organiser or any group undertaking of a specified competition organiser;
(b) connected in any capacity with an organisation which has, in the last year, received at least half of its income from a specified competition organiser;
(c) connected with a group undertaking of an organisation within the scope of part (ii);
(d) connected in any capacity with an organisation which has, in the last year, received at least half of its income from any of the organisations listed in parts (ii) or (iii); or
(e) connected (as defined in section 252 of the Companies Act 2006) with an individual within the scope of parts (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) of section 92(1).”

The amendment gives further detail to the definition of “conflict of interest” within this Bill.

NC1

To move the following Clause—
“Neurodegenerative care scheme
(1) The IFR must establish and supervise a scheme aimed at providing a high standard of care and support to any person who has developed a neurodegenerative condition linked to their career in English football.
(2) The Secretary of State must make regulations setting out—
(a) minimum requirements for the scheme,
(b) a timescale for the scheme’s establishment, and
(c) arrangements and a timescale for a periodic review of the scheme.
(3) The IFR must ensure that, as a condition of organising any competition specified pursuant to section 2(3), all specified competition organisers jointly operate, manage and fund the scheme in accordance with subsections (3) to (9).
(4) For the purpose of operating, managing and funding the scheme, all of the specified competition organisers must form a Joint Coordinating Committee (“JCC”).
(5) Any current or former player who has at any time been registered as a professional footballer is eligible for the scheme.
(6) The scheme must provide care and financial support to any eligible person who suffers from a neurodegenerative condition which is deemed, pursuant to subsection (7)(a), to have been caused or contributed to by playing or training activities within English football.
(7) The JCC must, under the supervision of the IFR, appoint a panel of independent experts—
(a) to determine whether, on the balance of probabilities, a neurodegenerative condition of an eligible person has been caused or contributed to by playing or training activities within English football, and
(b) to determine the appropriate provision of care and financial support required in the case of each eligible person.
(8) The IFR must ensure that the JCC acts upon the panel’s determinations.
(9) Where—
(a) specified competition owners, through the JCC, cannot agree about the operation, management or funding of the scheme, or
(b) at any time, the scheme does not meet either—
(i) the aim under subsection (1), or
(ii) any requirements set out in regulations under subsection (2),
the Secretary of State may, having taken advice from the IFR, make a direction about the operation, management or funding of the scheme.”

NC2

To move the following Clause—
“Support to clubs
(1) The IFR shall provide reasonable and proportionate assistance to—
(a) regulated clubs seeking to obtain a provisional club licence;
(b) clubs with a provisional club licence seeking a full club licence; and
(c) unregulated clubs who are reasonably likely to become regulated clubs in the next football season.
(2) The IFR shall provide reasonable and proportionate assistance to regulated clubs in their efforts to continue to comply with the conditions of their provisional club licence or full club licence.
(3) In fulfilling its duty under subsections (1) and (2), the IFR shall have regard to the factors listed in section 53(9).
(4) This assistance may come in the form of—
(a) financial support;
(b) training; and
(c) support staff.”

This new clause would require the IFR to provide assistance to football clubs transitioning to the new licence regime and to enable clubs continued compliance with its requirements.

1

Clause 6, page 5, line 14, at end insert—
“(d) to ensure that the care and support of those who have developed neurodegenerative conditions linked to their career in English football is a central part of its approach to football governance, and to establish and supervise the scheme provided for under section [Neurodegenerative care scheme].”

This amendment places an objective on the IFR to establish and supervise a scheme to provide care and support to those who have developed neurodegenerative conditions linked to their career in English football (see NC1).

2

Clause 10, page 7, line 6, at end insert—
“(d) an assessment of any existing and effective financial distribution agreement against the principles set out in section 62(2);”

This amendment would require the state of the game report to make an assessment of any existing and effective financial distribution agreement against the principles set out in distribution orders for the resolution process.

9

Clause 10, page 7, line 8, leave out “18” and insert “12”

This amendment would require the first State of the Game Report to be published within 12 months of the Bill passing.

10

Clause 10, page 7, line 12, leave out “five” and insert “three”

This amendment would require all subsequent State of the Game Report to be published every 3 years.

12

Clause 28, page 21, line 8, at end insert “and the applicant has provided a commitment to maintain long-term use of the relevant club’s home ground (with said commitment to be codified in such form as the IFR may determine).”

This amendment would include a commitment to maintain long-term use of the relevant club’s home ground as part of the determination of suitability for a new owner.

13

Clause 28, page 21, line 16, at end insert—
“(c) the applicant has provided a commitment to maintain long-term use of the relevant club’s home ground (with said commitment to be codified in such form as the IFR may determine).”

See explanatory statement for Amendment 12.

6

Clause 53, page 43, line 35, after “club” insert “and in particular that the starting point for calculation of the levy payment applicable to a particular club should be a percentage of annual revenue”

This amendment would require the IFR to have regard to a football club’s percentage of annual revenue when calculating a levy payment.

14

Schedule 4, page 98, line 20, at end insert—
“(d) the home ground threshold requirement (see paragraph 4A)”

See explanatory statement for Amendment 15.

15

Schedule 4, page 99, line 41, at end insert—
“Home ground
4A (1)The home ground threshold requirement is met, in relation to a club, if the club—
(a)has security of tenure over a home ground for at least the minimum period; and
(b)the home ground is suitable for the club's use for footballing purposes.
(2)In subsection (1)(a), the minimum period is 20 years, or such other period as the IFR may determine in respect of a particular club (where there are compelling reasons why it should be shortened).
(3)In determining whether subsection (1)(b) is satisfied in respect of a club, the IFR shall have regard to the specified competition and league in which a club plays and whether the facilities satisfy the requirements set out by the relevant competition organiser(s), as well as any other factors that it deems relevant.
(4)In this paragraph 5, "home ground" shall have the meaning given to it in section 46(10)(a).”

This amendment specifies what constitutes the home ground threshold requirement.

7

Schedule 5, page 100, line 19, at end insert—
“(e) an enforcement condition.”

See explanatory statement for Amendment 8.

16

Schedule 5, page 100, line 19, at end insert—
“(e) an Asset of Community Value condition.”

This amendment adds the requirement to attach an Asset of Community Value condition to each club operating licence.

8

Schedule 5, page 103, line 16, at end insert—
“Enforcement
11A An enforcement condition is a condition requiring a club to incorporate and maintain within its Articles of Association (or equivalent constitutional document) provisions which—
(a) require any person in respect of whom the Regulator makes an order under section 43 to—
(i) transfer the shares and/or voting rights which are held, directly or indirectly, in the club by that person (or by the trustees or members referred to in paragraph 2(5)(a) of Part 1 of Schedule 1),
(ii) terminate that person's right (or that of the trustees or members referred to in paragraph 2(5)(a) of Part 1 of Schedule 1) to exercise, or cease to exercise, significant influence or control over the activities of the club, and
(iii) terminate that person's right (or that of the trustees or members referred to in paragraph 2(5)(a) of Part 1 of Schedule 1) to appoint or remove an officer of the club, and
(b) empower any director of the club, or any trustee appointed by virtue of an order under section 43, to complete, execute and deliver in the name of, and as agent and attorney on behalf of, the person referred to in paragraph 13(a) (or the trustees or members referred to in paragraph 2(5)(a) of Part 1 of Schedule 1) all documents necessary to fulfil that person's obligations under paragraph 13(a).”

This amendment creates an enforcement provision to better enable the removal of an unsuitable owner. It would require a club to amend its articles of association to include a standing set of compulsory share transfer provisions and restrictions on the usual powers of a majority shareholder.

17

Schedule 5, page 103, line 16, at end insert—
“Asset of Community Value
11A The Asset of Community Value condition is a condition requiring a club to either—
(a) obtain and maintain Asset of Community Value status for its home ground; or
(b) incorporate into its Articles of Association a restriction which substantially mirrors the restrictions placed on Assets of Community Value under the Localism Act 2011,
and the Secretary of State may create regulations detailing further the implementation of the Asset of Community Value condition.”

The amendment defines the Asset of Community Value condition that clubs are required to obtain for their home ground and is consequential on Amendment 16.

94D

After subsection (5) insert—
“(6) If the report concludes that the IFR’s objectives could be achieved more effectively by delegating an IFR function to the Football Association or a specified competition organiser, then the Secretary of State may, after consulting the Football Association or the specified competition organiser, and with their agreement, transfer responsibility for that function from the IFR to the Football Association or specified competition organiser.”

96

Clause 99, page 78, line 13, at end insert—
“(2A) The Secretary of State may not make regulations under subsection (1) until the Secretary of State has published the guidance about the meaning of significant influence required by Schedule 1, paragraph 15(1).”

94A

In subsection (4), line 25, leave out “Secretary of State” and insert “panel”

94B

In subsection (5), line 33, leave out “Secretary of State” and insert “panel”

94C

In subsection (5)(d), leave out “Secretary of State” and insert “panel”

34

Schedule 5, page 99, line 38, at end insert—
“(2A) The code of practice should include guidance on the appointment of independent non-executive directors and must recommend the appointment of at least two non-executive directors.”

1

Clause 1, page 1, line 4, leave out subsection (1) and insert—
“(1) The purpose of this Act is to protect the financial sustainability and success of English football.
(1A) The Secretary of State must, in taking any action under this Act, have regard to this purpose.
(1B) The Independent Football Regulator must, in exercising its functions under this Act, have regard to this purpose.”

This amendment alters the purpose clause to include financial sustainability and success, and to give legal effect by requiring the Secretary of State and the IFR to have regard to that purpose.

2

Clause 1, page 2, line 2, after the first “of” insert “current and prospective”

This amendment specifies that fans includes current and prospective fans.

35

Clause 21, page 14, line 6, at end insert “, and
(ii) if the club has a women’s team, ensure the club will meet, or will continue to meet, any licensing criteria applicable to the women’s team and its relevant competitions.”

3

Clause 1, page 2, line 4, at end insert—
“(c) meets the social responsibility duty set out in section (Social responsibility duty).”

This amendment includes in the definition of English football sustainability the social responsibility duty created by the amendment after Clause 51 in the name of Lord Addington.

38

Clause 23, page 15, line 24, leave out paragraph (b)

This is part of a package of amendments which introduce safeguards ensuring that clubs have a say in the processes where a league may only step into the IFR’s regulatory role if the club gives consent, and they ensure where a league does step in, its regulatory actions are confined to the club concerned.

40

Clause 23, page 15, line 40, at end insert—
“(4A) If the club objects to the proposed condition or variation, the IFR must then give a notice about the proposed condition or variation to the specified competition organiser which organises a specified competition in relation to which a relevant team is operated by the club.
(4B) The notice must follow the same specifications as in subsection (3), and the period specified in the notice for making representations or giving a commitment must be a period of not less than 14 days beginning with the day on which the notice is given.”

This is part of a package of amendments which introduce safeguards ensuring that clubs have a say in the processes where a league may only step into the IFR’s regulatory role if the club gives consent, and they ensure where a league does step in, its regulatory actions are confined to the club concerned.

42

Clause 26, page 18, line 25, leave out “before a person becomes an owner or officer of a regulated club, or”

This amendment relates to another amendment in the name of Lord Fuller to leave out Clause 27.

43

Clause 26, page 18, line 34, leave out “27” and insert “28”

This amendment relates to another amendment in the name of Lord Fuller to leave out Clause 27.

44

Clause 26, page 18, line 35, leave out “prospective”

This amendment relates to another amendment in the name of Lord Fuller to leave out Clause 27.

45

Leave out Clause 27

This amendment removes the requirement for a person, an individual or a regulated club to notify the IFR when there is only a ‘reasonable prospect’ of that person becoming an owner.

50

After Clause 51, insert the following new Clause—
“Social responsibility duty
(1) The Secretary of State must by regulations categorise the degree to which regulated clubs must comply with subsection (3) based on the league in which they play.
(2) This categorisation must determine that regulated clubs which play in higher leagues will have a more stringent requirement on them to meet the provision in subsection (3).
(3) The IFR must ensure regulated clubs establish training schemes in local communities.
(4) The training schemes must provide opportunities for individuals in local communities to develop knowledge and skills congruent with becoming—
(a) a sports club, charity, or voluntary group treasurer;
(b) a sports club, charity, or voluntary group secretary;
(c) a sports club, charity, or voluntary chairperson.
(5) Regulated clubs must publish an annual report regarding how they have met the social responsibility duty and its effects.”

This amendment would require the IFR to ensure that regulated clubs provide training to local communities which develop competencies consistent with officers of an organisation.

25

Clause 12, page 7, line 38, leave out “sections 21 to 25 (discretionary licence conditions)” and insert “this Act”

27

Clause 14, page 8, line 37, at end insert—
“(aa) a review of the impact of the activity of the IFR on ticket prices, and”

55

Clause 55, page 45, line 13, at end insert—
“(6A) A specified competition organiser may add, remove or vary materially a specified competition rule only if the IFR agrees to the addition, removal or variation.”

When taken together, this and another amendment in the name of Lord Goddard provide that a league may only change relevant rules falling within the IFR’s remit if the IFR gives its agreement to the change, and allow the IFR to specify further information that a competition organiser must provide to the IFR when consulting it on a relevant rule change.

56

Clause 55, page 45, line 17, at end insert—
“(c) include such other information as may be specified by the IFR in rules.”

When taken together, this and another amendment in the name of Lord Goddard provide that a league may only change relevant rules falling within the IFR’s remit if the IFR gives its agreement to the change, and allow the IFR to specify further information that a competition organiser must provide to the IFR when consulting it on a relevant rule change.

60

Clause 57, page 47, line 32, leave out “five years” and insert “the applicable period (see subsections (7) and (8))”

61

Clause 57, page 47, line 35, at end insert—
“(7) Where—
(a) the specified competition organisers have agreed (whether in the distribution agreement or otherwise) a period for the purposes of condition 4, and
(b) both of the organisers have notified the IFR of the period so agreed,
the applicable period is that period.
(8) In any other case, the applicable period is five years.”

69

Clause 61, page 50, line 30, leave out “relegated from” and insert “in”

71

Clause 61, page 50, line 31, at end insert—
“(5A) A notice under subsection (3) must require the specified competition organisers to set out in their final proposal how any relevant revenue distributed through a distribution order under section 62 should be used by recipient clubs, and how such use will directly further the primary principle of the IFR, namely to protect and promote the sustainability of English football.”

73

Clause 62, page 51, line 9, leave out from “with” to end of line 11 and insert “the proposal made by the specified competition organiser whose relevant revenue would be distributed under the proposal, unless there are compelling reasons not to do so;”

74

Clause 62, page 51, line 22, leave out paragraph (b) and insert—
“(b) recognises and has particular regard to the fact that the distribution of relevant revenue constitutes a prima facie interference in the property rights of the distributor, and”

80

After Clause 85, insert the following new Clause—
“Armorial bearings
Nothing in this Act is to be read with prejudice to the powers of the Kings of Arms in regard to armorial bearings.”

83

Clause 91, page 73, line 40, at end insert—
“(iia) section (Social responsibility duty);”

This amendment would make regulations related to the social responsibility duty created by the amendment after Clause 51 in the name of Lord Addington subject to the affirmative procedure.