1. 2 updates

MP calls to stamp out homophobia in football

Homophobia on the football terraces should be met with the same zero tolerance as racism, a Liberal Democrat minister has said.

Communities Minister Stephen Williams called for clubs, the Football Association and the police to tackle anti-gay abuse with the same vigour as racial discrimination.

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'Unacceptable' that footballers fear anti-gay abuse

It is "unacceptable" that footballers still feel the need to hide their sexuality out of fear of abuse, a Liberal Democrat minister has said. Stephen Williams has called for anti-gay abuse to be tackled "with the same vigour" as racism.

Football clubs in England and Wales have done a frankly remarkable job at cracking down on racism since it was rife in the 1970s.

With the occasional exception that draws deserved criticism from fans up our game is leagues ahead of many of our European neighbours when it comes to integration.

– Stephen Williams, Liberal Democrats

Tackle homophobia 'same as racism in football'

Homophobia on the football terraces should be met with the same zero tolerance as racism, a Liberal Democrat minister has said.

Communities Minister Stephen Williams called for clubs, the Football Association and the police to tackle anti-gay abuse with the same vigour as racial discrimination.

Norwich City player wearing rainbow laces on their football boots as part of an anti-homophobia campaign Credit: PA

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