Could Scottish football fans be allowed to have a beer watching a live  match? SNP minister admits 'serious consideration' would be given to lifting ban if viable proposal made

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The SNP government says it would give ‘serious consideration’ to lifting the alcohol ban at football matches in Scotland if a viable proposal is made.

Supporters have been unable to drink in stadiums since legislation was introduced in 1980 — a legacy of the infamous scenes which followed that year’s Scottish Cup final between Celtic and Rangers.

The ban has remained in place despite the growth in matchday hospitality packages and the fact fans attending other sports such as rugby are permitted to buy and consume alcohol inside arenas.

This anomaly has seen a growing number of those within the game calling for football fans and clubs to be treated equally.

SNP MSP George Adam believes the restrictions should now be lifted so clubs up and down the country can reap the financial benefits.

‘Things have moved on in football and we need to look at this as a way of helping football clubs being able to generate more money,’ he said.

Scottish rugby fans are permitted to drink alcohol in the stands at matches

Both football and rugby clubs can have alcohol served in hospitality suites

But football fans want to enjoy the same access to alcohol as their rugby counterparts

‘You already have alcohol at football games in corporate, it’s just a case of finding other areas or zones in grounds to do that and make sure it’s a safe and controlled environment.’

Responding to the Paisley MSP’s remarks, Health and Social care Secretary Neil Gray said the Scottish Government would consider any plan.

‘We’ve not had any proposal yet from football authorities as to what that would look like or how that would be managed,’ he said. ‘But any proposal will be given serious consideration in light of the situation we’re talking about on the risk to harm.’

While former First Minister Humza Yousaf was against reversing the 44-year ban, Sports Minister Maree Todd this week appeared to signal a softening in the administration’s stance on the matter.

Responding to a written question on the matter, she said: ‘The Scottish Government remains committed to reducing the significant impact of alcohol harm on the nation’s health through a range of measures including the forthcoming increase to Minimum Unit Pricing.

‘However, we also recognise the calls for football fans to have the same opportunities as fans at other sports and events and we will continue to engage with the football authorities, supporters’ groups and clubs on ways to enhance the fan experience.’

It’s understood, however, that while Scottish clubs are keen to see the ban lifted, they feel the issue won’t progress until there is a government policy shift.

Last month, new St Johnstone owner Adam Webb became the latest figurehead to express his dismay at the current situation.

Describing the way fans of different sports are treated as ‘discriminatory’, Webb said: ‘One of the biggest things we need to work on is the beer sales policy. There are so many irrationalities with it.

‘You can drive a few miles over the border and have a beer at a stadium. You can also go to a different sport and have one.

‘To be able to go to a rugby match, which is an equally aggressive affair, and be able to have as much beer as you want, then come here to St Johnstone, and you’re completely handcuffed, makes no sense.

‘It’s costing every team for what are not legitimate concerns. Scottish football needs to improve its place in the world by bringing in more resources.

‘One way is making it available for those who want to have a beer at the match. It’s part of the day-out experience, we need to make it more enjoyable because that’s what benefits everyone.’