UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reaffirmed his support for ending the ban on supporters drinking alcohol in the stands during football matches.
Alcohol consumption in the stands is currently prohibited at matches across the top five levels of English football, from the Premier League to the National League. The restriction was introduced in 1985 amid concerns surrounding football hooliganism.
Burnham, an Everton supporter, had previously criticised the legislation before becoming Prime Minister, and he has maintained his position since entering Downing Street.
Speaking during a visit to the UN in New York, Burnham said football supporters should not be treated differently from fans attending other sporting events.
“I don’t think it’s fair for football fans to be singled out in that way and I made that point,” he said.
According to Burnham, the legislation was introduced during a very different period for English football and should now be reconsidered.
“There are different ways it could be done – it could happen on a trial basis,” he added.
The UK Football Policing Unit, however, has raised concerns about the proposal and said it wants to meet with the Prime Minister to discuss the potential impact on policing and the safety of supporters and staff.
The unit argued that football continues to experience levels of violence and criminal behaviour that are not seen in other sports, with alcohol frequently contributing to disorder.
It warned that allowing more alcohol consumption inside stadiums could increase those problems.
The Football Supporters’ Association has backed Burnham’s position. Its chairman, Tom Greatrex, said it was unfair for football fans to face criminalisation for drinking while watching a match when alcohol is permitted at other sporting and entertainment events.
He also pointed to successful trials in the Women’s Super League and Women’s Super League 2, where supporters have been allowed to drink in the stands at several grounds.
The EFL has also supported a trial of allowing alcohol in the stands.
The FSA welcomed Burnham’s latest comments, describing the existing legislation as outdated and calling for it to be reviewed.
