Euro MP backs Anti-Racism in Football

7.34.32pm GMT Wed 30th Nov 2005

Liz Lynne today added her voice to the drive to tackle racism as problems in European football hit the headlines again.

A Written Declaration is today being launched commending the work of the Football

Against Racism in Europe (FARE) network and calling for action by FA's, Leagues and Clubs across the continent to tackle racism in the game. The Declaration will achieve the rare status of a motion if a majority of the 732 MEPs in the parliament give it their backing.

Speaking today in Brussels Ms Lynne, Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands, said:

"This is a crucial movement, which I strongly support, and urge my fellow MEPs to do the same.

"It is unbelievable that in today's society, blatant racism is still so present and used openly to offend and degrade.

"Why should professional sportsmen continue to play and exercise their skills for the benefit of others if they are to be insulted in such a way? "

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

The launch comes just days after racism yet again hit the European headlines. During a Italian Serie A match on Sunday 27 November, Messina's Ivory Coast defender Marc Zoro picked up the ball and headed off the pitch after being subjected to a disgusting torrent of racist abuse by some sections of the visiting Inter Milan supporters. The Italian FA have announced that all midweek Italian cup fixtures along with next week's league games, at all levels down to amateur football, will be delayed by 5 minutes with the players taking to the field holding banners declaring 'No to Racism'.

As part of events in the parliament, the FARE Network will be hosting a public 'Hearing' on the issue to present the development of the FARE network over the last five years and identify the challenges and priorities for future action.

The Hearing will feature speakers including former Chelsea, Bari and Celtic defender, Paul Elliott, and former FC Schalke 04 midfielder, Yves Eigenrauch. They will be joined by leading European Politicians and prominent campaigners against racism from across the continent. Representing European football's governing body, will be William Gaillard, UEFA Director of Communications.