Andy Burnham: Prime Minister says drinking ban in stands at football matches could be scrapped
Drinking alcohol in the stands at football matches in the top five tiers of English football - from the Premier League down to the National League - is illegal; it was outlawed in 1985 due to concerns over hooliganism
Wednesday 23 September 2026 22:47, UK
Prime Minister Andy Burnham still wants to see beer return to football stands.
Currently, it is against the law to drink in the stands at football game. It was made illegal in 1985 due to concerns about hooliganism.
But Burnham - an Everton fan - said before he entered Downing Street that such a ban was wrong.
And, speaking while on a trip to the UN in New York, he said this is still the case.
The PM said: "I don't think it's fair for football fans to be singled out in that way and I made that point.
"That legislation dates to an era where football was very different, and I do believe there is a case to remove that discrimination.
"There are different ways it could be done - it could happen on a trial basis.
"But I'm not going to back away from what's been a long held view of mine.
"I don't see how it can be fair that some supporters of one sport can be treated differently."
In response, the UK Football Policing Unit said it would like to meet with the PM to "discuss his views and explain the challenges these proposed changes would bring to policing and the safety of staff and fans at football games".
They added: "Other sports simply don't see the violence and criminal behaviour from their supporters that football does, albeit a minority, with alcohol often playing a significant part in violent and disorderly behaviour.
"It would be irresponsible to fuel this by allowing greater alcohol consumption during games."
Football Supporters' Association chairman Tom Greatrex said: "The FSA has always argued that it's unfair to criminalise football fans for having a pint while watching the match - especially since you can sit in the same seat drinking alcohol while watching an Oasis gig or rugby league.
"Many clubs are in favour as well. WSL and WSL2 ran a successful pilot, meaning fans can now drink in the stands at many grounds, while the EFL has long supported a trial.
"We welcome the Prime Minister's comments and totally agree that the legislation is outdated and deserves to be reviewed. We look forward to being part of that consultation."
