Farron: government wrong to oppose safe standing

Hidden deep in a report this morning, the government has admitted that they do not support safe standing at football grounds. South Lakes MP and Blackburn Rovers fan Tim Farron has criticised the decision, calling it a "missed opportunity" and saying the government should look at the evidence and listen to fans.

The government's admission was buried within a sports strategy report, released this morning, which was targeted at tackling inactivity in sport. The report states that the government 'remains unconvinced' by the case for safe standing.

Tim has previously spoken out in favour of safe standing. The safe standing campaign is backed by the Football Supporters Federation and many clubs in all tiers of football.

Tim said: "This is a missed opportunity from the government to support football fans and clubs across the country.

"The government should look at the evidence - safe-standing is already used in many other sports, as well as abroad. There is no reason why it can't work in top-flight football.

"Safe-standing areas can not only add to the atmosphere at games, they can also help to drive down ticket prices for fans. Where fans and clubs want this change, the government should get behind them."