Labour's Scottish leader Michael Marra has said the time is not right for allowing alcohol on the terraces in Scotland, a stance backed by Record View. The comments follow a call from Andy Burnham for football fans to be allowed to drink booze in their seats while watching games.
Concerns over fan behaviour
Marra claims that allowing alcohol on the terraces would be a step too far for now. Looking at recent behaviour by a small minority of fans, it is hard to disagree with his concerns. Pitch invasions, street violence and the rise of the so-called “ultras” has plunged Scottish football into a dark place.
The great pity is that the vast majority of fans would enjoy a beer during matches without causing any bother. In general, the atmosphere at matches is far more family-friendly and safe than it was in the 80s when booze was banned. But the minority who revel in violence and abuse have made it very difficult to make the argument for bringing back bevvy on the terraces.
Compromise and revenue potential
The sale of beer on concourses is a privilege already enjoyed by fans in England and Wales. It could be considered in Scotland, with trials underway. This is a sensible compromise that allows supporters to enjoy a beer in a controlled environment. It would also be a source of much-needed revenue for cash-strapped clubs, especially in lower divisions.
But allowing fans to drink alcohol while watching the game seems a step too far in Scotland for now, given a recent resurgence in trouble. Football has worked hard to improve its reputation, and care must be taken to maintain it.
Ambulance service concerns
Scotland's ambulance service is full of dedicated professionals saving lives day in, day out. Their dedication and skill is beyond doubt and many families have ambulance staff to thank for keeping loved ones alive. But there have been far too many stories of people waiting too long for a 999 crew to arrive – and sometimes that has proved fatal.
Today the Daily Record reports on the growing number of “adverse events” where lives have been put at risk in the ambulance service. The tragic fact is things are getting worse, not better. There are wider problems in the NHS that contribute to unacceptable ambulance waiting times. Long queues at accident and emergency wards leave 999 crews stuck in hospital car parks rather than out there saving lives.
That must be so frustrating for the crews, and clearly poses a serious risk to those who need emergency transport. Sorting out this mess won’t be easy but we hope that highlighting these cases will prompt swift action from the Scottish Government.
