SCOTTISH football fans have reacted with anger at 'draconian' proposals put forward by the UK government to impose further restrictions on supporters travelling on buses to away matches.
The UK Senior Traffic Commissioner launched a consulation in late August on the introduction of stricter guidelines on buses carrying fans to football games, rules that would bring Scotland in line with those already in place in England and Wales.
Concerned supporters reacted with a mixture of fury and befuddlement on social media at the proposed restrictions, which would mean buses would require prior permission from the police before stopping within 10 miles of a stadium, and that any stop at a licenced premises would not only have to first be cleared with authorities, but would require any alcohol served to be accompanied by a 'substantial meal'.
Furthermore, Dedicated Football Officers would be appointed, with bus companies required to inform the DFO of the number of fans expected to travel, the number of vehicles booked, as well as the name and the contact number for the person who made the booking no later than 48 hours before departure.
Buses would also not be allowed to stop at any unauthorised locations to pick up supporters without first informing the police, and would be required to arrive at a stadium 'no earlier than two hours before and no later than one hour before the scheduled start of the game'.
Gillian McKay MSP of the Scottish Greens said on social media: "Supporters and football clubs should be celebrated for the excellent work they do to enhance their communities.
"These proposed measures are unwarranted, unworkable and out of touch. They should be scrapped immediately!"
MORE TO FOLLOW...
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel