Football Governance Bill [Lords]

Julie Minns Excerpts

2nd reading
Monday 28th April 2025 Commons Chamber

[Ms Julie Minns (Carlisle) (Lab)]

This evening’s debate demonstrates to all of us, regardless of our opinion on the Bill, just how important our football clubs are to our communities. The sense of pride with which we have all spoken this evening is, I think, a tribute to all our clubs.

Sadly, my remarks tonight are tinged slightly with sadness. On Saturday, Carlisle United confirmed their relegation to the national league, losing 3-2 to Cheltenham. I am sorry that the hon. Member for Cheltenham (Max Wilkinson) is not currently in his place, because I was going to congratulate him—through gritted teeth—on his team’s win.

My spirits are, however, somewhat restored by the provisions of this Bill—namely those to improve the financial stability of our football clubs, protect our clubs’ important cultural heritage and assets, and ensure that they engage with fans on matters important to them. I am pleased to say that on those three counts at least, Carlisle United are on good form.

Thanks to the Piatak family, who bought Carlisle United just 18 months ago, the club’s financial position has vastly improved. The new owners not only bought the historic debt but have invested millions in Brunton Park, creating new fan facilities including an excellent fan zone that befits loyal Blues fans. The owners have also agreed terms with Cumberland council to develop a new training ground adjacent to the city’s athletic facilities.

The board is also conscious of Carlisle United’s important cultural heritage. Last year, to mark the club’s 120th anniversary, a special exhibition was created at our city’s Tullie House museum, featuring among the exhibits Jimmy Glass’s blessed boots—if you don’t know, you should look it up. Fan engagement is also strong, with open forums, community involvement and an active commitment to diversity and inclusion. This was recognised last August, when the club was ranked second in English football for fan engagement by Think Fan Engagement. Therefore, although I might be saddened by Carlisle’s relegation, I am confident that the club’s foundations are stronger than ever. Not all clubs can say that, though, and that is why this Bill is required.

I do not need to tell this House that our football clubs are more than just clubs; they are the lifeblood of our communities, bringing us together, giving us moments of collective joy and sorrow and engendering local pride. That is why I am glad we are finally stepping in to give football fans up and down the country some peace of mind about the future of their clubs. Although Carlisle might be in the national league next year, I know the club is in good hands and I am reassured that the Bill will keep other clubs safe, too. That is how it should be. As former Carlisle manager the great Bill Shankly once said,

“Some people think football is a matter of life and death…I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.”