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Football Matches (Standing Spectators)

That also colours my judgment on the current position. There have been massive steps forward, and I appreciate the work of the Football Supporters Federation, Supporters Direct and football clubs themselves in ensuring that they improve safety and the culture at their grounds. The culture is changing, and more women and children attend games. The debate has been important, and we shall continue to examine the evidence and ensure that we listen to what has been said. On balance, I think that we have made the right decision in saying that, at this time, there is no need to change the regulations, for the reasons that have been outlined. Safety is paramount—we need to ensure that spectators are safe—but we value the input of the FSF. I look forward to having many more debates about not only safe standing at football grounds but football in general. We need to debate what is going on in football, and we look forward to that in the coming months. I am grateful for the debate. I am sorry that my hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, Sparkbrook and Small Heath has not convinced me to change my mind, but I recognise the strength of feeling and welcome hon. Members' contributions to the debate. It is important for us not only to listen to football supporters, but to strike the right balance between safety and security and people's choice. On balance, we have done the right thing. The debate has been tremendous, and we look forward to future debates on football.