A challenge to a rule born in the 1980s
The Prime Minister has backed the removal of restrictions on alcohol in the stands at matches in the top five tiers of English men’s football, arguing that supporters are being treated unfairly when fans of other sports and attendees at concerts can drink without facing the same ban.
Andy Burnham said the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol) Act 1985 reflects concerns about football hooliganism that dominated the 1980s, but no longer captures the atmosphere and safety standards surrounding the game. He said there was a strong case for ending what he described as “discrimination”, potentially through a controlled trial.
“I don’t think it’s fair for football fans to be singled out in that way and I made that point.”
“I think that legislation dates to an era where football was very different.”
“And I do believe there is a case
