How much influence can the government have over the way football conducts itself?
Well, you know what – I’m a Liberal Democrat and no one would have said I could be a minister. Hello! I’m a minister. You work in a direction and every time you raise something, there is a movement. You’re doing it! All sorts of people are rising up to say enough is enough. Its not about legislation its about saying its unacceptable. Cultural change comes when something suddenly becomes unacceptable as has happened with racism to an extent. Clearly homophobia is an issue if you have 3,500 straight footballers!
Can the government make the FA [English Football Association] do anything in particular?
No we can't. But I think that both Theresa May [Minister for Women and Equality] and myself have raised the issue of the FA and how football needs to get its act together. The messages haven’t failed to get through and they have signed up for the charter. Everything shifts. I’m pushing for gay marriage and straight civil partnerships; no one in London has batted an eyelid! Go back 20 years and people will have thrown their hands in horror.
Too often aren’t the fans blamed for no progress, as if they cant be trusted?
I think that’s ridiculous. Where’s that come from?
Max Clifford... Gordon Taylor...
Well don’t listen to them, this is why I need my meeting with the FA Chairman, to discuss with him. The evidence based on fans is that two thirds believe football would be better without homophobia. It’s clearly not just the fans. If the management and sponsors said this should stop, it would stop. I’m optimistic, I think it will happen and my job's to just keep the pressure on.
When do you think it will happen?
Oh gosh hopefully while I’m still minister for equalities!
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