Drinking at football matches - would fans welcome it?
Andy Burnham has long championed a repeal of the ban which prevents football supporters from drinking alcohol in the view of the pitch. But do fans even want it?
The current law in England and Wales prevents supporters from drinking alcohol in their seats during football matches, a prohibition that dates back to 1985. This rule was enacted to curb hooliganism, but attitudes have begun to shift in recent years. A pilot scheme in Scotland allowed alcohol sales in monitored areas, and the Women's Super League (WSL) recently removed the ban on drinking in stands.
The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) supports changing the law, arguing it is outdated and unfair to fans compared to those in other sports. While Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has not taken a firm stance, the English Football League has expressed openness to discussing potential reforms. Fans' views on this matter are varied, with some concerned about the potential for increased violence and disorder.
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