Premier League, FA and EFL outline anti-discrimination action plan in letter to sports minister

English football’s governing bodies have today written to the Government outlining their approach to tackle discrimination in the game, hours after Kick it Out announced a rise in incidents over last season.

The Premier League, FA and the EFL have written to sports minister, Mims Davies MP, outlining their plan of action for anti-discrimination this season.

Kick it Out saw discrimination reports rise overall by 32 per cent for 2018-19, with a staggering 62 per cent hike in incidents involving racism.

The letter, signed by FA chief executive Martin Glenn, EFL executive chair Debbie Jevans and the Premier League’s interim chief executive, Richard Masters, highlights seven areas in which the authorities are set to take action, from stewarding and sanctions to education and BAME representation from grassroots to the highest levels of the game.

The governing bodies have also called for a review on football banning orders from the Government as well as support in using football to effect change in wider society, citing social media as a priority problem.

“Football is working to eliminate discrimination from our game and will contribute to efforts to effect change in society more widely,” the letter reads.

“We are concerned that unacceptable abuse is now commonplace in the unregulated environments created by digital media and reflected by changes in how people speak and engage in debate. We welcome your determination in approaching the issue and thoughts about how the Department can help further by coordinating key actions in Government which would help us all fight discrimination.”

The sports minister said: "I have been clear there must be a far more concerted effort from all involved in the game to stamp out racism and discrimination at every level.

“This important update on forthcoming action from the FA, Premier League and English Football League is encouraging.

“Crucially, this includes a consistent approach to stronger education measures, improved reporting systems and better training and support for referees and stewards.

"It is crucial the momentum we've built up in tackling this issue is maintained, that the new proposals are fully robust, and that football works hard to make all aspects of the game more inclusive - from the grassroots to the elite.

“There is still much more to do. Football authorities must put tackling despicable abuse at the top of their agenda next season and I expect them to consult with both players and supporter groups as they progress their plans."

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