Independent Football Regulator Confirmed In King's Speech

The King's Speech this morning confirmed that the legislation necessary to implement an Independent Regulator to govern English football will be brought forward 'to safeguard the future of football clubs for the benefit of communities and fans.'

It only covers clubs down as far as the National League so wouldn't cover Bury when implemented but our fans have had a big say in it's creation.

The Regulator will operate a licensing system, where all clubs in the top five tiers of the men’s English football pyramid will need a licence to operate as professional football clubs. It will have powers to monitor and enforce compliance with requirements in financial regulation; corporate governance; club ownership (Owners’ and Directors’ tests); fan engagement and club heritage protection; and approved competitions.

It’s narrow focus will be protecting the long-term sustainability of clubs for the benefit of their fans and communities and helping to prevent the collapse of clubs like Bury and Macclesfield Town.

Bury supporters contributed to the Fan-Led Review directly and through organisations such as the Football Supporters' Association and Fair Game, providing insight into what went wrong before and what needs to happen in future. Whilst we await the details on exactly how this will be implemented we are extremely supportive of this piece of legislation and it's aims.

You can read more on the full government consultation process and responses here.

We can't undo the past, but we can help make the future more positive for other clubs and, ultimately, for ourselves as we work our way back up the football pyramid.