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

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what the Government's policy is on taking a position, either positive or negative, in relation to private individuals intending to purchase a football club; and whether it has ever adopted a position on that matter.

The Government does not currently assess the ownership or governance arrangements of individual football clubs. This includes any potential purchase by private individuals. However, we recognise that they have unique social value and it is vital that they are protected.

The Fan Led Review recommended that new owners’ and directors’ tests for clubs should be established by an Independent Regulator for English Football. The Government agrees this will help to ensure the future sustainability of our football clubs and the stability of the game. The Government’s response to the Review sets out that the tests should be strengthened by enhancing due diligence to check source of funds and the strength of business and financial plans, and that an integrity style test should be introduced. The forthcoming White Paper will provide further details on how the enhanced tests will work, and what will be in scope of the integrity test.