Starmer and Burnham at odds over football fans drinking in stands

Sir Keir Starmer and Andy Burnham appear to be at odds over whether football fans should be allowed to drink alcohol in the stands.

In a video posted on social media at the weekend, future prime minister Mr Burnham claimed it was “wrong” to ban football fans from drinking alcohol in the stands.

Everton fans have criticized the ban because rugby league fans can drink while watching their football team’s home game.

Asked about this position on Monday, the prime minister’s official spokesman said it was “sensible to follow” existing rules.

“Police chiefs have warned against relaxing rules on drinking in stands and we think it makes sense to comply,” he said.

“However, fans attending football league matches may drink in the lounge before the match during half-time, stay late after the match or go to the bar, so the chances of getting a drink are quite high.

“But as I said, we think it makes sense to follow the police’s advice.”

Mr Burnham said he would look at the rules again as he headed to the Hill Dickinson Stadium with friends, including Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram, to watch Leigh Leopards beat Warrington Wolves on Saturday. Both were seen holding beer glasses in their hands.

“I have one question about today, though,” Mr. Burnham said in a video.

“How can these boys be able to do this in my seat while we cannot do this in the home game against Everton? There is a problem here. I think we need to look at it.”

The Sporting Activities (Control of Alcohol) Act 1985 bans pitch-side drinking in England and Wales, but a fan-led review into football governance in 2021 called for a re-examination of the law.

But police chiefs warned against relaxing the law.

Meanwhile, Downing Street admitted Sir Keir was “sleep deprived” after staying up with his son to watch England’s 3-2 victory over Mexico on Monday.

The prime minister supported the team from the upper floor of his Downing Street flat, his official spokesman confirmed.

“He’s had a bit of a sleep deprivation this morning but he’s incredibly proud of his team and incredibly proud to be British after this performance,” he said.

“He’s seen England play for years, but this morning’s victory, high and high in the heat of the Azteca Stadium and against the host nation, was up there for him as one of England’s best ever performances.”