Remove 3pm TV Blackout to Boost Girls' Participation in Football

Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the Culture, Media, Sport Select Committee, is advocating for the removal of the 3pm TV blackout for women's football, citing the need to eliminate barriers that prevent young girls from participating in sports. The Committee's Game On report reveals a mixed picture of community and school sports in England, with particular challenges for school-age girls. To address this, the report recommends lifting the 3pm Saturday broadcast ban on women's football, which has been in place for 50 years, as evidence suggests that broadcasting women's sports inspires girls to be more active. The Committee also proposes that councils and housing associations remove 'No Ball Games' signs from public spaces to promote play. Additionally, the report calls for a more inclusive PE curriculum in schools, better teacher training, and increased funding for school and community sports. The government is urged to commit to stable funding and develop a cross-government strategy to promote a healthier nation, with the goal of doubling the current £3.8 billion expenditure on sport and recreation to £7.6 billion over the next decade.