Posted on 16th February 2026
MPs support “3UP” campaign as EFL clubs discuss proposal
MPs from across the political spectrum came together last week to show their support for the “3UP” campaign as the EFL confirmed its member clubs will discuss the idea at their AGM next month.
The National League – supported by clubs, supporters and politicians – hopes to increase the number of promotion slots to League Two from the current two to three, bringing it in line with the situation that exists between the Premier League, Championship and League One.
On Friday dozens of MPs – including culture minister Lisa Nandy – gathered in Westminster to support the campaign calling on EFL executives to facilitate an urgent change to its rules.
Last week an EFL spokesperson said the league had “considered recent correspondence received from the National League in respect of its 3UP campaign”.
“Following discussion, the board agreed that the most appropriate way to move matters forward was to further discuss alignment requirements with clubs at the all‑club meeting in March,” said the EFL.
“The league maintains that this is not a single-issue matter and one which requires detailed consideration of the other related issues and regulations at play, and close cooperation and constructive dialogue across the pyramid.”
The “3UP” campaign has popular support and last summer supporters voted to support the National League’s campaign with a motion at the FSA AGM in Manchester.
A poll conducted by the FSA prior to that showed nine out of ten fans back the principle of increasing the promotion and relegation spaces between the EFL and the National League from two to three.
National League chair Jack Pearce welcomed the EFL’s decision to put the issue to its 72 member clubs.
“The general response to our campaign over the last 12 months has been nothing short of remarkable,” Pearce said. “Virtually the whole of the ‘football family’ backs the change. Even the EFL recently conceded the current arrangements are ‘indefensible’ in the long term.
“Now that the EFL has scheduled a formal debate of its own clubs, we suggest working in partnership with them to help secure a successful club vote and get 3UP in place for next season.”
Co-ordinated by Dr Beccy Cooper MP, the Westminster photo-call was the latest political activity in support of the 3UP campaign which was launched just over a year ago.
“I am proud to support the ‘3UP’ campaign, which will help secure the financial stability of vital community-based clubs and protect the unique heritage of our football pyramid,” said Cooper.
“As we have seen this week, the pressure on the EFL is now at tipping point and we are urging the EFL executive to make this change happen for next season.”
