Independent Football Regulator

Lord Addington Excerpts

Wednesday 28th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Lab)]

My noble friend is right to highlight the action that has been taken since the regulator has been set up. The regulator has already published its State of the Game report, begun testing owners, directors and senior executives, protected club heritage by ensuring that fans are consulted on key decisions, and issued 10 consultations alongside final rules and guidance. The regulator’s CEO has written to all clubs ahead of the levy consultation, which will run until 4 December, and we encourage all clubs to respond and help shape the methodology that will determine the levy they pay.

[Lord Addington (LD)]

My Lords, we are looking at an industry that has 116 units being regulated, generates £9 billion and has 94% of its units operating at a loss. Can the noble Baroness think of any industry that is actually calling out more for regulation?

[Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Lab)]

The noble Lord makes a point that I heartily agree with. The State of the Game report underlines the issues with financial stability, governance and the structure, and underlines the need for the Independent Football Regulator to operate and use the powers it has in the three objectives of club financial soundness, working on the systemic financial resilience of the whole football pyramid, and safeguarding club heritage for fans.