FUNDING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUPPORTERS DIRECT

That this House notes that the Premier League has declined a funding request from Supporters Direct (the national body that supports and delivers supporters' trusts); believes that this decision hindered the development of supporter involvement in running football clubs; further notes that as a result communities and supporters will be hindered in gaining a voice in the running of clubs; further notes that the Government's stated support for more fan involvement in clubs as set out in the Coalition Agreement is made more difficult; and calls on the Government to reaffirm its support for Supporters Direct and its aims by making representations to the Premier League to rescind its decision.