By Mark Baber
June 18 – Amendments to the community empowerment bill, proposed by the Scottish Green party, were supported by members of the Scottish Parliament yesterday evening, opening the way for fan groups to buy their clubs if they fall into financial difficulties, and perhaps even to be granted a general “right to buy”.
The amendments to the bill, which is designed to offer residents the right to buy neglected or community assets, mean that Scottish Ministers will now be required to launch a consultation over the extent of powers to be granted to fan groups.
Alison Johnstone (pictured), the Scottish Green MSP who introduced the changes to the bill said: “The principle of a fans’ right to buy is overwhelmingly popular and parliament is doing the right thing by backing it.”
“Many Scottish clubs are well-run, but everyone can name others which have been forced into administration, or worse. With this right, never again would fans be left watching on the touchline as their club goes bust.
“This is a system that works well elsewhere, in places like Germany, Spain and Argentina, all countries which do rather better than Scotland at both a club and national level.”
Sports minister Jamie Hepburn commented: “The Scottish Government is absolutely committed to increasing supporter involvement in their football clubs.
“To get this right its vital that the voices of fans, clubs, and the footballing authorities are heard. That’s why we’ve brought forward amendments to ensure there is full consultation to determine what future changes to the law may be needed in this area.
“Over the summer and through the beginning of the new football season we’ll be seeking the views of everyone who cares about football to ensure that any measures brought forward benefit the game.”
Fans are already receiving help in setting up community interest companies form the Scottish Football Supporters Association with six clubs, including Stirling Albion and Hearts already bought or in the process of being bought by supporters’ trusts.
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