§ Mr. AshtonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects the Football Licensing Authority to be functioning; and what is the reason for the delay in setting it up.
§ Mr. John PattenMy right hon. and learned Friend made a commencement order under the Football Spectators Act 1989 on 21 March providing for the Football Licensing Authority to be set up from 1 June 1990. Appointments to the authority in the light of its role following the final report by Lord Justice Taylor will be made as quickly as possible.
§ Mr. AshtonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what powers he expects the proposed Football Licensing Authority to have with regard to the prevention of hooliganism.
§ Mr. John PattenWhen considering the issue, renewal, suspension or revocation of a licence to admit spectators to a football ground the Football Licensing Authority will have regard to whether the equipment provided, procedures used and other arrangements in force on the premises are such as are reasonably required to prevent the commission or minimise the effects of offences at designated football matches held there.