The MP for Southend West hosted a major summit on the future of local football in the House of Commons following the Government’s recent publication its White Paper covering regulation of the sport and clubs.
The MP for Southend West was joined by Dr. Rakib Ehsan (Report Author), Kevin Miles (CEO of the Football Supporters Association) and Nizaar Kinsella (Chief Football Correspondent for the Evening Standard) to discuss its findings.
During the hour-long discussion on what shape the much-anticipated new Independent Regulator for English Football (IREF) would take and how this will be crucial for clubs like Southend United, experts said ensuring financial stability and representation must be at its core.
The event was well attended by various supporters’ groups, including members of the Shrimpers Trust who had been invited by the Southend MP who is keen to play an active role in the White Paper as it makes its way through the House and becomes law.
Anna said,
“I was delighted to host this panel discussion to discuss what shape the new IREF will take. Football is at a hugely important crossroads, and it is crucial for all football clubs, not just my own Southend United, that we get this right. Undoubtedly, the best way to ensure we do this, is to engage with the most important aspect of football, the fans.”
“I hope to hold further events like this in the future and I will continue to liaise with fans every step of the way, to make sure that they remain at the heart of this essential legislation.”
Kevin Miles, CEO of the Football Supporters' Association,
“Every day without football reform and stronger rules is a day which risks the future of clubs like Southend United. Our thanks to Anna Firth MP for giving us the opportunity to make this case in Parliament again."
