City MP Stephen Morgan is backing the introduction of safe standing at football matches.
This follows an announcement from Labour’s Shadow Sports Minister, Dr Rosena Allin-Khan MP, that the decision to introduce Safe Standing should be devolved down to clubs, fans and safety authorities.
Last year, Labour pledged that all sports should be inclusive for all – by giving fans and supporters the opportunity to have a greater say in how their clubs are run.
Dr Rosena Allin-Khan MP and Mr Morgan support giving Portsmouth Football Club and their fans the power to decide what is safe for the future of their club.
During the last few months, Labour has consulted with clubs, supporters’ clubs and trusts, safety authorities, and leagues to undertake a review of opinions around Safe Standing in football.
Stephen Morgan MP said:
“After liaising with Portsmouth FC and fan representatives, I am happy to support the introduction of Safe Standing. Fans have been calling for their voices to be heard – they’re the people who know their stadia and know what is best for their fans.
Labour’s decision is the result of in-depth consultation with football clubs, fans and safety authorities. It’s time for change, it’s time to back safe standing.”
Rosena Allin-Khan MP said:
“We want to give the power to fans, clubs and local safety authorities, to allow for a small area inside a stadium to be designated for Safe Standing. Clubs, fans and local authorities know their stadium far better than anybody in Whitehall – the decision should rest with them.
This is about safety, the current system isn’t working, people are standing in unsafe seated areas, and accidents can happen. We would allow the installation of specialised rail seating where appropriate, or standing in current seated areas where it can be made safe to do so.
The data and extent of the surveys provided by the EFL and fans groups clearly shows that fans want Safe Standing introduced. Government Ministers have dragged their feet. They have not met with safety authorities in the last two months, they haven’t spoken to any supporters groups, and launched a review overnight without giving it any thought.”
