Football banning order powers could be extended

Powers to ban individual fans from football games could be extended, the Scottish Government has said.

Community safety minister Siobhian Brown will launch a consultation on the issue on Monday, seeking views on changes which could see banning orders handed to fans for the use of flares or fireworks at games, or for online abuse.

The consultation was informed by an expert group which included football authorities, the Government and police.

Banning orders provide the power to stop fans attending games anywhere in the UK for 10 years, but currently are only imposed if supporters are involved in violence or disorder.

The minister said: “Football fans are passionate about the sport, supporting their club and, of course, our national team.

“The vast majority of supporters are well-behaved and want to enjoy football safely. However, the behaviour of a small minority can put others at risk and spoil their enjoyment of the game, and have consequences for the football club.

“Whilst we have significantly strengthened the law to tackle pyrotechnic misuse in recent years, so that those who carry fireworks and flares into football stadia can face fines and up to six months in prison, pyrotechnic misuse at games remains an issue.

“The legislation governing football banning orders (FBO) in Scotland was introduced in 2006, when the use of flares at matches and harmful social media behaviour associated with the game were much less common.

“While FBOs can already be imposed on conviction for pyrotechnics offences that involve violence or disorder, we want to hear from people whether the law needs to change so these orders could be used more widely for pyrotechnics possession and misuse – ultimately to become a more effective deterrent and keep people safe.

“We have worked with football authorities, fans’ groups and justice partners on this consultation, and I would encourage anyone with an interest to give their views.”