18/11/2013
MP John Leech has today held talks in Abu Dhabi with City owners over Safe Standing at Etihad
Press Release
Office of John Leech MP
Date: 18th November 2013.
Embargo: None
Leech holds talks with City over Safe Standing
South Manchester MP John Leech has today held talks in Abu Dhabi with the owners of Manchester City regarding implementing safe standing at the Etihad Stadium.
Seven current Premiership clubs have stated they would support the introduction of safe standing. Several countries in Europe and worldwide, like Germany, Austria, Sweden, Canada and the United States, have “safe standing” for domestic fixtures. In Germany, at Borussia Dortmund , tickets are about £14 Euros (£12.50) and the capacity is 80,600.
The Football Supporters Federation have reported 92% of fans would also support the introduction.
John, a 29 year season ticket holder at City and the Lib Dem Spokesperson for Sport said,
“Safe standing will lead to cheaper tickets and a better atmosphere at matches.”
He went onto say,
“Every week thousands stand in seated areas supporting the team they love - they deserve proper safe standing areas. It is much safer to allow standing areas and give fans the proper choice of how they want to watch the game. I hope, with the upcoming expansion to the Eitihad stadium, to convince City to be the Premiership club to take a stand and introduce measures to make football cheaper and more accessible.”
<ENDS>
For more information contact Simon Ashley on 07879 891 150