ONE of Reading’s two MPs met with the English Football League in a bid to help secure the future of Reading FC.
Matt Rodda, who represents Reading East, was with Rick Parry, the EFL’s chairman on Wednesday, March 27.
During the meeting, they talked about the issues facing the Royals, including the potential sale. The pair were also able to explore the Football Governance Bill, which had its first reading in Parliament last week.
If it goes ahead, it will see the launch of an independent regulator for the men’s game in England, and include measures to bolster financial security of clubs, introduce a new set of compliance requirements, and increase fan engagement.
Following the meeting, Mr Rodda said: “I am continuing to call for the owner (Dai Yongge) to sell Reading to a new owner who can take the club forward.
“I had a positive meeting with Rick Parry, the chairman of the EFL, where I raised fans concerns as we discussed the possible sale of Reading FC and the forthcoming Football Governance Bill.
“It was encouraging to hear that Mr Parry is hopeful that the club may be sold, and I was pleased that the EFL believes that Reading is an attractive club for a potential owner. However, I do understand that the EFL is unable to comment in detail.”
He continued: “I was also pleased to hear that the EFL is going to press for the proposed new football regulator to have teeth, as the Football Governance Bill is debated in Parliament.
“I will be calling for the regulator to have powers to prevent unsuitable owners from buying clubs and for the regulator to be able to stand up for the interests of fans.”
“I was also pleased to hear that the EFL believes It will also be fundamental to correct the financial imbalances that cause owners to take so many risks.”
