Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, if she will (a) discuss with the Premier League and the Football Association the experience of Newcastle United fans at Elland Road on 22 January 2022 when turnstiles stopped working and (b) help ensure steps are taken so that fans are not endangered by that situation again.

The Government continues to work closely with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA), clubs, governing bodies and local authorities to ensure that spectator safety remains paramount.

The Government is concerned by reports of the incident at Elland Road. The ultimate responsibility for the safety of spectators lies at all times with the ground management, so the SGSA is engaging with Leeds United and the Local Authority to establish the facts and any implications for safety management arrangements at Elland Road and other SGSA licensed grounds.

We welcome the statement from Leeds United, which indicates that they and their safety team will work closely with the Newcastle Supporters Trust, West Yorkshire Police to review the issues raised and ensure that a safe environment is provided for those attending the Elland Road Stadium.