The Sports Grounds Safety Authority Bill was given an unopposed third reading in the House of Commons on Friday, 11th March and will now go to the Lords for further deliberation. If passed through the Lords, it will mean that the Football Licensing Authority (FLA), set up in the wake of the Hillsborough disaster, would for the first time be able to advise on safety at stadiums used for sports other than football under the changes agreed by MPs.
At present the FLA's role is limited to providing specific advice on spectator and venue safety in relation to football stadia only. Speaking in the House of Commons when the Bill was being debated, Sport Minister Hugh Robertson said, "We are absolutely committed to maintaining the services and standards provided for football but believe there is a unique opportunity to extend the reach and remit of the FLA for wider benefit....Of course, the fact that the London Olympics is upon us in 18 months time means that it is important and timely to do this today." more...
