LONDON: In a dramatic response to matchfix concerns the Football Association is proposing a worldwide ban by players and officials on any form of betting on football.

How it would or could be enforced is another matter; also, the unanimous recommendation from the FA Council begs the question of whether leagues and clubs should be allowed to continue accepting sponsorship revenue from betting companies.

The changes to FA Rules from the start of the 2014-15 season would see a worldwide prohibition drawn widely enough to include any other football-related matter such as transfers, managers’ jobs or team selection.

The passing of inside information for anybody to use remains prohibited.

The betting rule changes would had already been approved by the Football Regulatory Authority in March. Now they need to be agreed by FA shareholders at their annual meeting on May 21.

The proposal follows consultation with the Premier League, Football League, Professional Footballers’ Association, League Managers’ Association and Football Conference.

Currently, FA Rules state that no participant can bet on a match or competition in which they are involved that season, or which they can influence, or any other football-related matter concerning the league that they play in.

Darren Bailey, The FA’s Director of Football Governance and Regulation, said: “The FA constantly evaluates its rules and regulations to ensure that they meet the needs of the modern game.

“The proposed betting rule adjustment to encompass all aspects of world football provides a simple and straightforward message to all participants on where the line is drawn.

“It is important to stress that the rules form only one part of the overall framework for the regulation of betting and maintaining the integrity of the English game. In addition to the monitoring of betting markets throughout the world, education remains a key part of our work.”

** Tranmere have sacked manager Ronnie Moore after he admitted an FA charge for breaching betting rules.

######