Andy Burnham urges repeal of 40-year terrace alcohol ban for football fans

Mayor Andy Burnham has called for the removal of the ban that prevents football supporters from consuming alcohol within sight of the pitch, describing it as a relic of a bygone era of hooliganism. He notes that the law, part of the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act, treats football fans differently from rugby and cricket spectators, which he sees as discriminatory. Burnham proposes that the restriction could be lifted on a trial basis to assess its effects.

A spokesperson for the UK Football Policing Unit responded that alcohol often contributes to disorder at football games and that any change would need careful policing and consultation. The debate highlights a tension between modern fan experience and public safety concerns. Burnham first raised the issue while watching a rugby league match at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium, noting the inconsistency in treatment.