The plight of Torquay United and their fans has been highlighted during a debate in the House of Commons.
Torquay United is currently in administration; no information has been released regarding the identity of the new owners, who have been named as preferred bidders by administrators Begbies Traynor. The club was docked 10 league points as a result of going into administration, which was triggered when previous owner Clarke Osborne walked away from the club in February, saying he could no longer put money into it. Sports minister Stuart Andrew praised the club’s supporters trust for its work in recent weeks while the Gulls have been facing financial difficulties.
United had to fight to stay in National League South after losing at Taunton Town in the penultimate game of the season last week, but they prevailed despite the points deduction.
Torbay MP Kevin Foster enquired as to what recent talks on Torquay United’s financial sustainability had taken place between the National League and the government’s department of culture, media, and sport.
After losing last week’s penultimate game of the season at Taunton Town, United had to battle to stay in the National League South, but they prevailed in spite of the deduction of points.
Torbay MP Kevin Foster asked the National League and the government’s department of culture, media, and sport about recent discussions about Torquay United’s financial viability.
Mr Andrew responded, “I agree that meaningful engagement with fans is crucial. I want to put on record my thanks to the Torquay United Supporters Trust for its action to support the club and the fans.” Mr Foster told him, “Recent weeks have been difficult for Torquay United fans. The club entered into administration following years of fans struggling to get answers from the owner, and a completely flawed plan for a new stadium, which made no progress whatsoever.
“I understand that there are worries about the financial state of the entire game. For this reason, the bill will empower the regulator to oversee and implement financial regulations as well as handle matters related to club ownership, fan interaction, and club legacy, guaranteeing that teams are safeguarded for the very supporters who are their cornerstone.”
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