SNP ministers will set a “high bar” in talks over the return of booze to football stadiums, we can reveal.
A senior Scottish Government source said they expect to hold informal discussions with SPFL chiefs — but it will be “tough” to convince them change is needed.
Footie chiefs are set to speak to the government about ending booze ban[/caption]
Fans can drink at the rugby[/caption]
Struggling clubs want to be able to sell drinks to fans outside of hospitality areas. Last month the move was backed by Nats MSP George Adam.
Now footie bosses are looking at proposals on behalf of clubs.
Among the draft ideas, insiders say, is excluding games deemed high risk — such as the Old Firm and Edinburgh derbies due to fan behaviour concerns.
SPFL chief exec Neil Doncaster and chief operating officer Calum Beattie plus SFA supremo Ian Maxwell are involved in considering how to approach the Government on the issue.
Glasgow Warriors will take on Edinburgh in a huge rugby clash at Hampden in December where booze WILL be available for punters to drink.
That game will take place just a week after the Premier Sports Cup Final where NO alcohol will be served.
But the source said last night: “Any return of alcohol to football grounds will have a high bar to jump over.
“It needs to be evidence-based which will be tough.”
There is concern over record booze-linked deaths and a potential rise in hooliganism.
Clubs want the same chance as English teams to sell alcohol in grounds.
Affluent punters can bevvy in hospitality and rugby fans are able to down pints during matches.
The ban was introduced here after the 1980 Scottish Cup Final riot.
But Nats MSP Ben Macpherson said he was “glad” the issue was being reconsidered — as many fans see the ban as “unfair and nonsensical”.
He added: “There are still problems with how some supporters behave and issues with levels of alcohol consumption. But does stopping people having a half-time beer make a meaningful difference? I’m not sure it does.”
Colleague Mr Adam said last week: “You already have alcohol at games in corporate, it’s just a case of finding other areas in grounds to do that.”
Health Secretary Neil Gray initially said he’d “seriously consider” lifting the ban, before adding there were “no plans” to do so.
The SPFL and SFA both declined to comment.
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