Lord in Waiting/Government Whip (Lord Lemos) (Lab)

My Lords, I thank all noble Lords for their contributions to this rather lovely debate. I am sorry that the noble Lord, Lord Parkinson, cannot remember who won—probably very diplomatically. I thank particularly the noble Lord, Lord Brennan of Canton, for championing this important measure through both Houses. As the noble Lord, Lord Parkinson, said, it is a really important achievement. I also thank the noble Lord, Lord Moynihan, formerly Colin Moynihan, the MP for Lewisham East, where I was one of his constituents and where, despite my heroic campaigning efforts, he kept winning. Today we find ourselves more or less on the same side. I can confirm that the Government have noted his observations and will think seriously about them, and I am glad to have been working with my friend, the noble Lord, Lord Moynihan, from our younger days until now. This Bill is about protecting fans and ensuring that football matches remain safe, welcoming events for all. Unauthorised entry, whether by tailgating or forced entry, puts genuine supporters at risk, strains security and undermines match day experience. With Euro 2028 matches to be played in England and Wales, we must address these issues now so that fans can enjoy world-class football in safety and confidence. This Bill will create a clear offence of unauthorised entry and empower courts to impose football banning orders. Banning orders are a proven deterrent; they prevent repeat offenders jeopardising safety and send a strong message that dangerous or dishonest behaviour will not be tolerated. I should make it clear that this is not about punishing honest mistakes; its safeguards ensure that only those who deliberately flout the rules will be caught. This is a proportionate, targeted and necessary measure which reflects the unique public order challenges associated with football that are not seen to the same extent in other sports or events. The Bill is consistent with the broader framework of the Football (Offences) Act 1991. It has enjoyed cross-party support throughout its passage and has been welcomed by both the Football Association and the police as a timely and effective response to a growing problem. It is a fan-friendly measure that will protect the vast majority of decent supporters from the actions of a dangerous minority and will help ensure that football remains a safe, welcoming environment for everybody. I commend it to the House.