Andy Burnham says football drinking ban unfair and may be lifted
Prime Minister Andy Burnham signalled on 23 Sep 2026 that the decades‑long ban on drinking alcohol in football stands could be lifted. He described the rule as unfair to Everton supporters who cannot enjoy a match‑day pint like fans of rugby or cricket. The comment was made in a News interview by political editor Lizzy Buchan at 22:02.
Outdated law isolates football fans
The prohibition has been in force in England and Wales since 1985, when Margaret Thatcher introduced legislation to curb football hooliganism. Under the current rule, alcohol may not be consumed within 15 minutes of kick‑off or after the final whistle. Critics note that fans can still drink in the concourse, which can lead to binge drinking before matches or a rush for drinks at half‑time.
Prime Minister argues for review
Burnham told reporters, “I don’t think it’s fair for football fans to be singled out in that way… the legislation dates to an era where football was very different.” He added there is “a case to remove that discrimination” and suggested a possible trial basis. The Everton‑mad prime minister also recalled his earlier criticism of the ban before he became prime minister, saying he would not back away from his long‑held view.
Police warn of disorder risks
Mark Roberts, head of UK Football Policing, warned that “there is a clear correlation in and around football between alcohol and poor behaviour”. Earlier this year he linked the relaxation of World Cup licensing laws to a rise in violence. A UK Football Policing Unit spokesperson said the force would welcome a meeting with the prime minister to discuss the safety challenges such a change could bring.
Tom Greatrex, chair of the Football Supporters’ Association, called the ban “unfair to criminalise football fans for having a pint”. He pointed out that fans can drink at an Oasis gig or a rugby league match in the same seat. Many clubs support a review, noting that the Women’s Super League and WSL2 ran successful pilots allowing drinks in the stands, and the EFL has long backed a trial.
A fan‑led review of football governance in 2021 recommended piloting alcohol sales on terraces in League Two and National League games to help lower‑league clubs boost revenue. Ex‑Sports Minister Tracey Crouch, who led the review, said the recommendation would be “welcome news for clubs lower down the pyramid”. Pilots have already taken place in the women’s game but not in men’s matches.
York Outer MP Luke Charters welcomed Burnham’s comments, describing them as “totally spot on”. Burnham previously posted a video holding a pint, asking, “How come these lads can do that in my seat here when we can’t do that at an Everton home game?” The prime minister’s stance reflects his personal affinity for Everton and his view that supporters should not be discriminated against.
The debate remains unresolved, with police urging caution and supporters’ groups pressing for change. Burnham indicated a case for review but stopped short of promising an immediate repeal, leaving a meeting with policing officials and possible trial schemes as the next steps.