HC Deb 28 January 2000 vol 343 cc361-2W
Dr. Kumar

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what assessment he has made of the progress made by football clubs in tackling racist behaviour among football spectators; [106286]

(2) what measures his Department is taking to tackle racist behaviour among football spectators. [106287]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

Under Section 3 of The Football (Offences) Act 1991, as amended by Section 9 of the Football (Offences and Disorder) Act 1999, it is an offence for a person to engage or take part in chanting of a racist nature at football matches. The 1999 Act came into effect in September 1999 and the police and courts have been urged to use the extended powers at their disposal.

The Football Association, the League Managers Association, the Professional Footballers Association, the Football Association Premier League, football clubs and supporter groups are all working hard to eliminate racism from football. The Government will continue to play their part by providing the necessary legislative framework; monitoring implementation of the various measures recommended by the Football Task Force; and supporting initiatives like Show Racism the Red Card.