West Brom welcome official review into safe standing

The announcement followed a Parliamentary debate on safe standing, which came after a petition was signed by 112,000 people calling for its introduction.

Albion's pilot scheme to convert 3,600 seats in the Smethwick End into 'rail seats' was knocked back last month.

Addressing the Commons on Monday, Ms Crouch said that running the pilot would have required a law change, adding: "The legislative framework as it is currently set out means I cannot allow for any pilots.

"There is no wiggle room – it is either the status quo or change the legislation."

Ms Crouch, who was accused of 'declaring war on fans' after saying that only 'a vocal minority' wanted standing areas, said she had been threatened with physical and sexual violence in recent weeks.

She told MPs: "My mind is open on future of the all-seater policy.

"I felt so disappointed with my own loose language on safe standing, that rightly led to outrage, but then sadly turned into abuse and threats."

The review, which will be completed by the end of the year, will analyse existing evidence and look to identify any missing data. It will involve footballing authorities, leagues and supporters' groups.

"At the moment, we don't have data or evidence to make a decision either way on this issue," added Ms Crouch.

"Change cannot and should not happen overnight on something as serious as football ground safety."

Albion have welcomed the review and are said to be open to future communications with ministers on the issue.

Villa, who started looking into safe standing in 2012, have backed the idea, as have Wolves.

Shadow culture secretary and West Bromwich East MP Tom Watson said the Government had 'kicked their heels' on safe standing for too long, while the demand from clubs and fans had grown.

"We have finally got some more details from the Minister about their review – but we still don't have a timetable," he added.

"Labour's view is clear: It is high time that it was local clubs and safety authorities rather than mandarins in Whitehall who get to decide on safe standing."

The Football Supporters' Federation said: "The fans will look forward to seeing the detail of the review and it is encouraging that there's a commitment to working with supporters groups alongside the football authorities.

"This isn't an issue that is going to go away. Supporters back the choice to sit or stand as standing is so central to generating the best possible atmosphere at football."

Standing in English football's top two divisions was outlawed by the Football Spectators' Act in 1989.

Last month League One side Shrewsbury became the first club in England and Wales to install safe standing.