Alison Johnstone MSP, Sport spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, has welcomed analysis showing clear support for legislation to give football supporters the right to buy their clubs.
A former athlete, Alison launched her Fans First campaign three years ago, and last summer secured powers through the Community Empowerment Bill for the Scottish Government to introduce a fans’ right to buy. A Government consultation on whether to use these new powers closed in January.
An analysis of almost 1,000 consultation responses has now been published. It notes that right to buy attracted the highest level of response of all the consultation topics, reflecting the work of the Fans First campaign, and that a clear majority of respondents favoured implementing the law.
Alison Johnstone MSP said: “I’m pleased to see such a strong, positive response to the Scottish Government consultation. By implementing a right to buy Scotland can continue on the journey towards fan ownership, something that supporters in other countries take for granted.
“Fan ownership would bring balance and stability to Scottish football, as numerous clubs have struggled with poor financial management in recent years. This campaign is backed by fans across Scotland, including many with experience in the boardroom, as well as by leading anti-sectarianism and community empowerment campaigners.
“I urge Scottish Ministers to act upon the clear demand for a right to buy.”
24
0
20
