Source: Liverpool_Echo
Liverpool MP Steve Rotherham slams bid to restore standing areas in football grounds
A BID to bring back standing areas in all football grounds was condemned by Liverpool MPs - who fear a repeat of the Hillsborough disaster.[LNB]Bath MP Don Foster yesterday introduced his backbench bill to allow existing and new-build stadia to return to 'safe' standing areas.[LNB]But MPs from all sides vowed to kill the measure before it reaches its next stage in the New Year.[LNB]Walton Labour MP Steve Rotheram, whose constituency includes both Liverpool and Everton's grounds, said there was a clear danger the lessons of the 1989 tragedy, in which 96 Reds fans were crushed to death, were not fully understood.[LNB] Since Hillsborough, all Premier and most Football League grounds have been all-seater.[LNB]Mr Rotheram said: 'After that, the safety record at British stadia has been exemplary, unlike overseas where such horrific incidents still happen.'[LNB]Although the current bill will certainly be blocked, there is a growing Commons move to permit standing in lower division new-build stadia.[LNB]Mr Rotheram added: 'I can understand some of the arguments, but it will take a lot to convince me genuine safety guidelines will be observed.'[LNB]Bootle MP Joe Benton added: 'Hillsborough showed us safety must be paramount.'
