29th September 2005

City backs 10-Year football ban on bigots

Glasgow council officials have backed moves to ban fans convicted of racist or sectarian behaviour from every Scottish football ground.

Hooligans could be banned from attending SPL, SFL or international matches for up to 10 years, under a proposed crackdown by the Scottish Executive.

Chief constables would be able to apply to courts to ban individuals convicted of football-related offences from all matches.

The courts would also have the power to stop known offenders from travelling to see their club's European games.

Glasgow City Council believes the new powers would help the Old Firm and other major clubs target troublemakers.

More than 2500 fans have been banned since the orders were introduced in England and Wales five years ago, with the number of offences dipping by 30 percent in that time.

A city council statement said: "The council believes banning orders would help cut football-related disorder.

"It would also complement action currently being taken by city clubs, particularly Celtic and Rangers, against sectarian, racist and homophobic behaviour."

The rules are likely to cover any offence in the 24 hours before or after a match, if the incident is deemed to be football related.

New anti-sectarian legislation requires courts to take into account a motivation of religious prejudice when sentencing.

Senior police officers plan to analyse CCTV footage in grounds and at other trouble hotspots to monitor hooligan fans likely to commit these offences.

The conditions could also include fans being prevented from travelling to city centres on match days and having to surrender their passport.

First Minister Jack McConnell is said to be a major driving force behind the move in Scotland.

The measures are part of the new Scottish Police Bill, which is out for consultation.