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Football fans in the United Kingdom could soon be allowed to drink alcohol in view of the pitch for the first time in more than four decades.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has doubled down on his desire to explore a potential change to the law, suggesting a trial could help determine whether the restrictions should be lifted.
What has Andy Burnham said about scrapping alcohol ban in football?
The Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol) Act 1985 prohibits drinking alcohol in view of the pitch at football matches in England and Wales, with the restrictions applying to the top five tiers of men's football.
Burnham has argued that football supporters are treated differently from fans of sports such as rugby and cricket, where drinking in the stands is generally permitted.
Speaking during a visit to New York, the Prime Minister said there was a case for removing what he considers to be discrimination, adding that the change could be introduced on a trial basis.
The Football Supporters' Association welcomed his comments, with chair Tom Greatrex describing the legislation as outdated and calling for a review.
However, the UK Football Policing Unit has warned against making changes without a full examination of the evidence, arguing that alcohol can contribute to violence and disorder at football matches.
There is already a precedent in the women's game, where clubs in the Women's Super League and WSL2 have been permitted to allow alcohol consumption in view of the pitch following an 18-month trial.
The 2021 Fan-Led Review of Football Governance also recommended examining trials in lower-league football, with potential financial benefits for clubs among the arguments for reform.
FGG says: A trial of alcohol in football stands must happen first
There is a reasonable argument that football supporters should not automatically face restrictions that do not apply to fans of other sports.
Allowing alcohol in the stands could also make the matchday experience more convenient for supporters who currently have to leave their seats to drink.
However, concerns around crowd safety, disorder and the potential impact of increased alcohol consumption cannot be dismissed.
Football has a different history and risk profile from many other sports, meaning any change would need careful consideration.
A properly monitored trial at selected grounds would allow authorities to assess the impact on supporters, policing and stadium safety before any wider decision is made.