MP Calls For Fan Representation

The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Rt Hon James Purnell MP has called for more fans to be elected on their club boards through their supporters` trusts.

In his keynote speech to delegates at the annual Conference of Supporters Direct in Manchester on Friday, he highlighted the achievements of the supporters` trust movement as they seek to build on their progress.

And the news will come of considerable value to Owls' fans, following the recent disputes between fans' group Wednesdayite and the current Owls board, which now seem to be showing some signs of resolution.

'I want to see a supporter representative, a voice for fans, on the board - on the main Board - of all professional Clubs,' he said.

'This would be a crucial step in securing a greater balance between the commercial and sporting aspects of the Game and ensure greater accountability of sports clubs to their local community.'

Over 40 existing club directors have already been put in place through their trusts, and the Minister has called on the football authorities to work with Supporters Direct to secure representation at more clubs throughout the leagues.

He added: 'I would strongly support an extension of the existing model which has already been proven to work with 'Supporter Directors' being elected to Club Boards from existing Trust Boards.'

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