HC Deb 02 December 1986 vol 106 cc583-4W
Mr. Alton

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is Her Majesty's Government's policy towards the banning of visiting supporters at home grounds where Football League matches are held.

Mr. Tracey

I am encouraging football authorities and clubs to work closely with the police in taking every reasonable step to deter trouble-makers from travelling to or entering football grounds. Membership schemes can play an important part in this process.

We have welcomed Luton Town football club's initiative as an interesting and carefully planned experiment tailored to the particular needs of that club from which other clubs may learn valuable lessons when addressing their own problems. I am discussing with the football authorities a range of measures, including effective membership schemes, which will retain and encourage genuine support by excluding troublemakers.