Pars chief McArthur pleads with Scottish Government to step in

DUNFERMLINE chairman Ross McArthur says clubs are facing ‘catastrophic consequences’ unless the Scottish Government agree to a bailout package. Despite hopes that a financial deal with Holyrood was close, it is understood talks between the Joint Response Group and ministers have stalled. And clubs, who face playing an entire season without fans, are anxious the issue has been shelved until MSPs return from their break on October 26. The National League, the fifth tier in England, got around £20million in UK Government support last month, but Scottish clubs are frustrated by the lack of progress here. McArthur, who also sits on the SPFL board, says time is running out to avoid severe damage to the sport. He said: ‘Without government support, which other industry sectors have, the consequences could be catastrophic. ‘We hope Scottish football’s place in our society will be understood and respected, and that its voice will be listened to. Clubs in England’s National League are similar to most clubs in Scotland and they received government support. We’re not advocating that football in Scotland should be treated more generously than other business sectors — we are just looking for parity.’ McArthur, whose team kick off their Championship campaign at home to Inverness CT today, is adamant that clubs can safely accommodate fans after watching countries across Europe open their turnstiles. He said: ‘The continued ban on supporters is causing Scottish football real concern. Walk-up fans account for at least 40 per cent of our income and other revenue streams are already reduced and/or uncertain. ‘We are confident we could adhere to all government guidelines and still safely accommodate a significant percentage of fans in our ground, something which is recognised elsewhere in Europe. ‘We appreciate the return of spectators right now is not realistic, but some form of support, recognising how our unique industry works (hugely reliant on income streams from fans and hospitality) is critical.’