MPs have rejected a Liberal Democrat amendment that would have required at least ten Premier League matches to be broadcast on free-to-air television each season. The proposal was defeated by 340 votes to 86 during consideration of the Football Governance Bill.
The amendment aimed to dismantle the current paywall system that forces supporters to spend up to £660 annually on subscription packages to watch top-flight football.
It would have mandated the new football regulator to ensure Premier League matches, along with the League Cup Final and Championship, League One and League Two play-off finals, were available without subscription requirements.
The Liberal Democrats positioned the amendment as a "free-to-air revolution" that would return the nation's most popular sporting competition to wider public access. The proposal represented a significant challenge to existing broadcasting arrangements that have dominated Premier League coverage for decades.
Max Wilkinson urged MPS to help push the bill through, ultimately failing
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Liberal Democrat Culture spokesman Max Wilkinson urged MPs across party lines to support the amendment. "For too long, the jewel in the crown of British football has been locked behind an expensive barrier that keeps fans out while lining the pockets of broadcasters," he stated.
The Liberal Democrats favour an approach similar to Spain's, where La Liga must offer one free match weekly following a 2022 legal change.
Wilkinson emphasised the financial burden on supporters, saying: "Fans are being rinsed of every last penny to watch the beautiful game."
He also highlighted concerns about accessibility for future generations, noting: "The next generation of Bellinghams and Bronzes are priced out of the chance to see football played at the very top level."
"That must end today - with a free-to-air revolution that gives the Premier League back to the country," Wilkinson added. The Liberal Democrat spokesman argued that expensive barriers exclude fans whilst enriching broadcasters at the expense of public access to football.
The government has signalled resistance to the proposal despite concerning viewing trends. Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock previously stated that while "we all want to see more matches being televised free-to-air," this must be balanced against investment in football.
She warned against risking the billions raised annually through broadcasting deals.
A Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson confirmed: "The Government has no plans to review the listed events regime."
Sky Sports saw a 10% drop in viewership last season
PA
Recent figures reveal Sky Sports experienced a 10 per cent drop in Premier League viewing figures last season, whilst TNT Sports saw a 17 per cent year-on-year reduction.
The Football Governance Bill will establish an independent regulator overseeing England's top five divisions.
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