In her fortnightly column, Blackburn MP Kate Hollern has welcomed the introduction of the Football Governance Bill to regulate the game in England.

I was delighted to see the long-awaited publication of the Football Governance Bill last week.

This welcome news comes at a key moment for English football after the 2021 controversy of the proposed European Super League, and the recent decision by several Premier League clubs to walk away from a deal that would have seen more money shared with the English Football League.

This disappointing decision from the Premier League rightfully provoked frustration across the board and exemplified the need for urgent reform.

The publication of this Bill is undoubtedly an important milestone which will help to secure the long-term financial sustainability of the football pyramid across England. 

To reach its current state, the Bill has required significant involvement from a variety of stakeholders across the sport.

I was grateful to have had the opportunity to engage with the Fan Led Review of Football Governance which informed much of the Bill we have today.

It was a fruitful opportunity to discuss, amongst other things, the misaligned incentives that are putting clubs’ finances in danger, the lack of a proper voice for supporters in many clubs’ corporate structures, and the growing difficulty of regulating the modern game.

By introducing statutory independent regulation of the game, the Football Governance Bill follows Labour’s long-term calls for an Independent Regulator.

The Government’s plans for an ‘Independent Football Regulator’ (IFR) as a standalone body – independent of both government and the football authorities – will give fans a greater voice in the running of their clubs, by enhancing the integrity of football governance and safeguarding the future of clubs for the benefit of communities and fans.

The design of the IFR ensures that robust powers revolve around three core objectives: to improve financial sustainability of clubs, ensure financial resilience across the leagues, and to safeguard the heritage of English football.

Blackburn is a shining example of a football community. Blackburn Rovers has been part of the town’s existence for approaching 150 years.

I know how much football means to people and what a massive role football clubs can play in fostering community spirit.

Rovers' performance in the recent Newcastle United FA Cup match illustrated this perfectly as, despite ultimately losing on penalties, the determination shown by the team in making a Premier League opposition work so hard for victory created a palpable pride across the town.

For clubs like Rovers, this Bill will help to guarantee their survival in a fair and competitive environment.

It is critical that the new regulator works in the interest of fans, whose voices must be heard when it comes to making important decisions.

The date for Second Reading, where the Bill will be properly debated for the first time, has yet to be announced.

As this is an issue of such importance to myself and to our town, I will be eagerly awaiting the opportunity to examine the exciting potential that it offers.

Football is nothing without its fans, and this Bill ensures that they are back at the heart of the game we all love.

Kate Hollern is the Labour MP for Blackburn.