SNS GroupChanges could be made to Football Banning Orders (FBOs) to crack down on pyrotechnics and other forms of football-related disorder.
A public consultation is set to open on Monday, seeking views and evidence on whether the legislation around FBOs needs to be improved to meet current needs.
FBOs are court orders that prevent individuals from attending all regulated matches in the UK, and they can be imposed for engaging in violence or disorder.
Views are being sought on whether extending their reach could be an effective deterrent against disorder, such as pyrotechnics misuse and online abuse.
Community safety minister Siobhian Brown 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 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.”
Alan Marshall, Chair of the Football Safety Officers Association Scotland, added: “The Football Safety Officers Association Scotland welcomes the launch of this consultation.
“Safety officers across the country see first-hand the evolving challenges in ensuring a safe environment at football matches, including the increased misuse of pyrotechnics, which are illegal and becoming a bigger issue at football matches across Europe.
“Football Banning Orders are an important tool in helping prevent disorder, and to help stop the actions of a small number of supporters negatively impacting the experience of law-abiding football fans. It is appropriate that the legislation is reviewed to reflect modern realities.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
