A prominent Labour MP has tabled a parliamentary motion criticising English football clubs for “exploiting” supporter loyalty through ticketing policies.
Ian Lavery MP tabled Early Day Motion 150: Football Ticket Prices in the wake of 19 out of 20 Premier League clubs raising ticket prices ahead of the new season as well as some changing rules on concessions. Lavery was vice chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Football Supporters during the last Parliament.
Early Day Motions (EDM) are used by MPs to draw attention to specific issues or campaigns which matter to them – and their fellow MPs can sign the EDM to show their support for the issue too. Lavery’s EDM has the support of the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA).
The EDM, if supported, would put on record that Parliament would “resist any attempt to introduce so-called dynamic ticket pricing in a football context.”
The EDM reads further: “That this House notes that despite the cost of living crisis and football clubs earning ever more income from broadcast and commercial income, 19 out of 20 Premier League clubs increased ticket prices this season; further notes that many clubs are abolishing or reducing concessionary tickets, both penalising loyal senior fans and pricing out young fans who are the future of the game; expresses concern that clubs are exploiting the loyalty of fans who cannot switch their brand allegiance as customers can in other sectors; notes that top-flight clubs increasingly seem intent on replacing long-time season ticket holders with increased numbers of hospitality clients and one-off visitors who are more willing to accept high prices.”
‘Clubs don’t value supporter loyalty’
The FSA cites figures suggesting ticket prices have risen by around 7% compared to last season. However, it added that figure could be higher as some clubs have reduced the deals offered to younger fans and seniors.
The FSA said the motion is in line with discussions at its AGM and has its full support. The group has called on individual fans and supporter groups to contact their MP and ask them to sign EDM 150: Football ticket prices.
The FSA said: “There’s a general sense among FSA-member groups in the Premier League that clubs don’t value supporter loyalty – unless it comes with high prices and an expensive visit to the club shop.”
Lavery has been elected chair to the prospective new group which the FSA is establishing in this Parliament.
Earlier today, Aston Villa announced a sell-out for its UEFA Champions League home opener against Bayern Munich despite a backlash over pricing.
Aston Villa fans groups, former players and nationwide supporters’ associations expressed concerns over the club’s pricing strategy after it was announced last week. General admission tickets for the four home Champions League games were priced at almost £100 – much more than even top Premier League matches.
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