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

To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had about the future of Derby County Football Club; what assessment they have made, if any, of allegations of financial mismanagement at that club; and what assessment they have made of the impact, if any, on the (1) players, (2) coaches, and (3) fans.

The Government continues to engage closely with the English Football League (EFL) about Derby County Football Club. It is for the EFL, the administrator, and the club to resolve issues to ensure the survival of Derby County FC, but the Government has urged pragmatism from all parties to find a solution for the benefit of fans, staff, and the community that the club serves. The EFL must preserve the integrity of the league on behalf of all member clubs, but all parties want to see one of the founding members of the Football League continue this season and beyond under appropriate ownership.

The Fan-Led Review of Football Governance, commissioned by the Government, made proposals directly addressing how to prevent clubs ending up in such difficult financial situations. We have endorsed in principle the primary recommendation of the review: that football requires a strong, independent regulator to secure the future of our national game. The Government is now working swiftly to determine the most effective way to deliver an independent regulator, and any powers that might be needed.