Andy Burnham, the Labour leadership hopeful and Everton fan, has criticised the law that prevents football fans from drinking alcohol in the stands, calling it 'wrong' after witnessing rugby league fans enjoying pints at the same stadium.
Burnham Questions Inconsistent Law
Speaking after watching his rugby league team, Leigh Leopards, defeat Warrington Wolves at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, Burnham questioned why the law applies differently to football. He was accompanied by friends, including Liverpool metro mayor Steve Rotheram, who were holding pints of beer during the match.
Burnham said: 'I've only got one question, though, about this day today. How come these lads can do that in my seat here when we can't do that at an Everton home game? Something wrong there. I think we need to look at that.'
The 1985 Law and Its Impact
The Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol) Act 1985 prohibits drinking in sight of the pitch in England and Wales for designated sporting events, which includes football matches. The law was introduced to curb hooliganism, but critics argue it is outdated and unfairly targets football fans.
In 2021, the fan-led review of football governance, chaired by Tracey Crouch, called for the law to be re-examined, suggesting that a controlled trial of alcohol in stands could be considered. However, police chiefs have warned against relaxing the law, citing concerns about disorder and safety.
Political Implications
Burnham, who is considered a potential future prime minister, has previously supported changes to football governance. His comments add to growing pressure on the government to review the legislation. The incident highlights the disparity between football and other sports, such as rugby league, where alcohol consumption in stands is permitted.
According to the Home Office, the law remains under review, but no immediate changes have been announced. The debate continues as fans and officials weigh the benefits of a more relaxed approach against potential risks.
