Sheffielders react to Andy Burnham’s bold idea to scrap the alcohol ban in football grounds
The consumption of alcohol in the stands of English football grounds and areas with views of the pitch has been banned since 1985
Andy Burnham is considering a new policy which will allow football fans to drink in the stands for the first time in more than 40 years.
A government spokesperson said: “We are considering the case being made by some clubs and supporter groups for reviewing the current restrictions on alcohol consumption at football matches.
“The safety of football fans remains our priority, and any future consideration of changes would need to be evidence-led and informed by the views of policing and safety authorities, as well as clubs, supporters and other partners across the football sector.”
The statement comes just weeks after the new Prime Minister made his thoughts clear by claiming that it was “wrong” that spectators could not enjoy a pint during matches.
Everton fan Mr Burnham made the comments while watching a rugby league match at the club’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.
In a social media clip while holding a pint, the Prime Minister said: “How come these lads can do that in my seat here when we can’t do that at an Everton home game?
“There’s something wrong there, we need to take a look at that.”
The ban on alcohol in the stands and any area with a view of the pitch was introduced in 1985 when Margaret Thatcher was in No.10.
At the time it was introduced to try and eradicate hooliganism in football grounds, but other sports such as rugby and cricket were not affected by the ban.
But should the rule be changed?
The Star asked local football fans to share their thoughts.
Jon Fowler said: “Wouldn’t be a bad idea, I see it quite often before a match or at half time people gulping down pints in quick time, because they can’t drink while watching a game, so they’re more drunk then if they took their time drinking during a match, plus use plastic glasses, you can’t really throw these at opposing fans.”
Claire Louise Mills added: “Rugby fans can drink in the stands with no issues, so it depends if football fans can behave themselves or not.”
Martin Dougie Upton said: “Safe standing and beer are allowed in German football grounds without any problems.”
Carol Donaldson was a bit more sceptical, she said: “I think it would cause havoc and let's face it there's enough violence on streets without football drinking in the stands.”
Margaret Cheswick also expressed concerns. Particularly after witnessing the scenes of the World Cup where many threw pints in the air to celebrate goals.
She said: “No, I don't want to be covered in beer.”
Simon Roche argued that the PM should be prioritising more urgent matters. He commented: “Up to him, but it should be about number 1,000 on his to-do list.”
LJ Smith said: “Recipe for disaster.”
Dave Woolin said: “As a fan, no, it will just cause carnage.”