Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, whether she is taking steps to increase the transparency of football club investigations into fan safety; and what assessment she has made of the potential merits of mandating the publication of investigation recommendations such as that regarding the match between Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United on 7 January 2023.

The safety of spectators at sporting events is of the highest importance to His Majesty’s Government and we will continue to work closely with all relevant authorities to ensure that football fans can continue to enjoy the sport whilst attending matches safely.

Local authorities issue safety certificates for relevant football stadia within their boundaries, and are responsible for local engagement and assessment. Sheffield City Council convened a Safety Advisory Group (SAG) meeting following the concerns raised by Newcastle United supporters who attended the FA Cup third round tie at Hillsborough Stadium on 7th January 2023. The minutes from the SAG meeting have been published and Sheffield City Council have taken action to address the safety concerns that were raised.