MP James Wild concerned about potential over-regulation of football

James Wild has raised concerns about potential over-regulation in the Football Governance Bill and risks to the success of English football.

Speaking in a Westminster Hall debate, the North West Norfolk MP highlighted the global popularity of the Premier League, which supports 90,000 jobs across the UK, alongside the Football League's significant contribution to the game.

As a supporter of Norwich City and King’s Lynn Town, he emphasised the importance of “ensuring reforms strengthen the game at all levels, rather than undermining the success of English football”.

He said: “All fans would sign up to the key objectives of ensuring financial sustainability, preventing breakaway competitions and protecting heritage, but my concerns are about possible over-regulation and overreach.”

With the bill progressing through Parliament, amendments have been introduced in the House of Lords to include a growth duty - a change Mr Wild called for and has welcomed.

However, he remains concerned about potential impact of some of the measures.

He pointed to tensions between the English Football League and the Premier League, with the EFL refusing to negotiate on revenue sharing until the bill’s backstop powers on the distribution of incomes come into force.

Mr Wild also criticised plans to include parachute payments in the new regulations, stressing their importance “for clubs like Norwich City to stay competitive and invest in their future”.

“Currently, there is a voluntary distribution of the revenues through the football pyramid, and that is essential to the health of the game,” the MP added.

“We are seeing the impact of the proposals - the EFL is refusing to negotiate with the Premier League and has said that it is waiting for the backstop powers to come into force.”

As debate on the bill continues, Mr Wild is urging ministers to avoid unintended consequences that could damage the competitiveness and financial strength of English football.