Member

On paragraph (f) in Amendment 12, I assure noble Lords that the regulator’s backstop mechanism is designed to be used only if an industry-led agreement on the distribution of revenues has not been agreed by competition organisers. I understand that a number of noble Lords have a preference for an industry-led solution. This is also the Government’s strong preference, and the backstop process is designed to facilitate this. However, we also understand concerns regarding slow progress and the inability of the industry to reach a suitable agreement. As noble Lords are well aware, there is currently an impasse. Discussions have been ongoing for five years. As a last resort, allowing the regulator to intervene will be better for the sustainability of English football. If football cannot or will not deliver a solution, the regulator will.