Support for Saints
April 7th 2009
Alan today made a joint call along with John Denham and Southampton's Labour Councillors for the City Council to take a leadership role in saving Southampton Football Club. Below is the full pres release on the call put out by the Southampton Group of Labour Councillors:
Labour politicians have renewed their support for Southampton FC as the club faces the biggest financial crisis in its history.
Councillors, along with MPs John Denham and Alan Whitehead, are calling for cross-party talks in Southampton to establish what can be done to help the ailing club.
One idea that has been proposed is for Southampton City Council to purchase St Mary’s Stadium on behalf of the community, and lease it back to the club.
Labour wants to investigate the idea to see if the stadium could be taken over with other partners, and if the scheme might be feasible.
Labour has long been committed to backing the Saints, and championed the club’s ambition for a new stadium when neighbouring authorities, controlled by Tories and Lib Dems, previously attempted to thwart the club’s plans.
The move to St Mary’s Stadium was also helped by Labour, as current group leader, Cllr Richard Williams, brought the former gasworks site to the club’s attention after Southampton FC had searched in frustration for many years for a suitable plot.
Cllr Williams said this week: “The club needs the help of everyone at this very difficult time. If we can play a part we want to. By getting everyone together it will help to see what can be done.”
John Denham said: “I have been in close touch with the football club over the last few weeks. I hope finance can be found to give the club a chance to avoid relegation.”
Alan Whitehead said: “Even though it is unlikely the council could afford to take on all the club’s debts, it still could play a vital role in bringing interested partners together.
“The council could also show leadership by guaranteeing a portion of the club’s financial burden and stadium costs as a demonstration of the important role Saints plays in the social fabric of our city.”
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