Independent Football Regulator

Debate between Baroness Taylor of Bolton and Baroness Lloyd of Effra

Wednesday 28th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Lab)]

I stand to be corrected by noble Lords who were here during the initial phases of the Bill, but I believe that the impact assessment was published under the previous Government. Indeed, that impact assessment was heavily caveated. It was decided during the passage of the Bill setting up this independent regulator that it should set its own budget, and that is the way that we have proceeded.

[Baroness Taylor of Bolton (Lab)]

My Lords, does the Minister agree that the Independent Football Regulator has shown great willingness to engage with Members of this House and the other place, and that that is quite unusual for many regulators? Does she also agree that his interventions so far have been constructive in saving at least one football club?

[Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Lab)]

My noble friend is right to highlight the engagement that the Independent Football Regulator has had, although I stress that the regulator remains independent and is taking operational decisions, as he makes clear.