Minister Peacock Issues Apology to Brady, Arsenal, and Brighton Executives

Sport Minister Stephanie Peacock has offered an apology to Baroness Brady, Tim Lewis, and Paul Barber after causing unintentional distress in a recent statement regarding the football regulator. In a released statement from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) today, Peacock clarified that she did not mean to question the integrity of high-profile figures in the football industry.

Last month, Peacock penned an opinion piece for the Daily Mail criticizing those who seek to obstruct progress and proposed changes to the Football Governance Bill. She emphasized the importance of the Independent Football Regulator and expressed regret for any unintended implications about the integrity of Baroness Brady, Tim Lewis, and Paul Barber.

The minister’s article responded to concerns raised by Brady, Lewis, and Barber in The Times about the potential impact of the Bill on football club owners and budgets for development initiatives. Peacock disputed claims about the regulatory costs affecting essential programs, stating that such suggestions were baseless and offensive.

It appears that misunderstandings and disagreements are common in these discussions, but Peacock’s intention was never to cast doubt on the honesty or sincerity of those involved. She extended her apologies to the individuals affected and expressed her desire to put this issue to rest.

This incident serves as a reminder that public statements can have unintended consequences and require careful consideration before publication. In similar instances, other government officials have faced challenges and necessary retractions, underscoring the importance of clear and respectful communication in all matters.