Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reignited the debate over allowing alcohol in football stands, but his proposal is facing opposition from fans who argue it would spoil the matchday experience.
Burnham, speaking to reporters in New York, said he still believes the ban on drinking in stands or terraces during men's matches should be overturned. He labelled the policy 'discrimination' and said it was unfair for football supporters to be 'singled out'. The ban, introduced under Margaret Thatcher to combat hooliganism, applies to the top five tiers of English football.
Why the ban should stay
As a regular attendee at League One matches and a fan of a Scottish club, the writer admits he enjoys a pint but is completely opposed to lifting the ban. He argues that even a small percentage of fans drinking during matches could make the experience less pleasant for everyone else.
The main concern is the potential for unrest and the annoyance of fellow spectators. Fans already have to deal with people constantly walking past to get food or use the toilet; adding pints into the mix would only make it worse.
Pint-throwing and discrimination claims
The writer also points to the growing issue of pint-throwing at major tournaments, a risk he believes is not worth taking. He suggests that celebrating a goal is best when spontaneous, and being drenched in beer would take the joy out of the shared experience.
Burnham's team has since clarified that his comments were just an opinion, not a policy he intends to push through government. However, the writer criticises Burnham's use of the word 'discriminatory', noting that football still has work to do in being welcoming for female, LGBT+ and ethnic minority groups.
A lucky escape for fans
Unlike in Scotland, where no alcohol is allowed in stadiums outside hospitality, English fans can still enjoy a pint at half-time. The writer suggests that fans clamouring for the ban to be lifted should count themselves lucky, especially those watching from the director's lounge like Burnham.
For now, the ban remains in place, and the writer plans to continue enjoying his pre-match or half-time pint without throwing it over anyone.
