London - The British government yesterday pledged to make racist abuse by spectators at soccer matches a criminal offence, and called on the football authorities to tell players they will be sent off for such comments.
The Sports Minister, Mr Tony Banks, said the government would tighten the law as soon as parliamentary time was available in response to a report from its Football Task Force. "It is essential that we all tackle the problems faced by young black and Asian players and supporters, and I am determined this report will be acted upon," Mr Banks said.