Michelle Scrogham believes that the introduction of a stronger Government bill will prove to be vital for sports clubs in Furness.

The MP for Barrow and Furness spoke with the Sports Minister, Stephanie Peacock MP, on Wednesday, November 6.

This came in the wake of the strengthened Football Governance Bill, which was introduced to the House of Lords last month.

Mrs Scrogham said: "I told the Minister we need investment in grassroots sports facilities locally and we talked about the importance of a fair financial settlement between the premier league and EFL.

"I am pleased that the new Football Governance Bill will help secure the future of clubs like Barrow AFC by helping put clubs on a sound financial footing and by putting fans back at the heart of the game."

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In changes to the previous draft of the Bill, the Regulator will now explicitly require clubs to provide ‘effective engagement’ with their supporters on changes to ticket prices, and any proposals to relocate their home ground. 

The Regulator will no longer be required to consider government foreign and trade policy when approving club takeovers, ensuring it is fully independent of government and industry. 

Clubs will also now be required to be transparent and publish what action they are taking on EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion).

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Mrs Peacock added: "Football would be nothing without its fans, and this strengthened Bill will deliver an Independent Regulator that puts them firmly back at the centre of the game. 

"From protecting club heritage such as shirt colours and badges that mean so much to so many of us, to requiring clubs to consult fans on changes to ticket prices, the Regulator will help make the game the best it can be."

Since coming to office, the Government has argued that strengthening the Bill is a 'priority' to ensure that clubs, such as Barrow AFC, will 'continue to thrive for generations'.