The Government has published its long-awaited White Paper on Football, in response to the recommendations of the Fan-Led Review published in November 2021.

The Rovers Supporters’ Trust welcomes the publication of the White Paper and the proposals put forward within the document, including the introduction of an Independent Regulator to oversee the financial sustainability of the game and put fans back at the heart of how football is run.

The Trust contributed evidence to the Fan-Led Review and some of its suggestions were included as recommendations when the review was published.

Following the release of the White Paper this morning, Trust Chairman John Murray reflected: “The publication of the White Paper makes this a landmark day for football supporters. The appointment of an Independent Regulator and the guarantees for greater supporter influence on the strategic running of clubs are gamechangers, and will determine the future of the game. I hope this will include a fairer redistribution of football wealth and real influence from supporters, without whom football would be nothing. The great benefit of the Trust model is that it is a democratic organisation and, ultimately, it is the supporters of the Club that will shape and decide its destiny.

We will be sure to keep our members up to speed as we understand more the implications for the Rovers and the Rovers Trust.”

Some of the key proposals of the White Paper include:

The introduction of a new Independent Regulator to help prevent a repeat of the financial failings seen at Derby County, Bury and Macclesfield Town.
Implementation of a new licensing system from the top-flight down to the National League, requiring clubs to demonstrate sound financial business models and good corporate governance.
A strengthened Owners’ and Directors’ Test to protect clubs and their fans from unscrupulous owners. 
Guarantees for fans to have a greater say in the strategic running of their clubs.
Protection of clubs’ heritage to stop owners from changing names, badges, and home shirt colours without consulting fans, and requiring regulatory approval and fan engagement as part of any sale or relocation of the stadium.
Powers to block English clubs from joining unpopular breakaway leagues like the European Super League.