Legalising haggis was a joke but love for Scotland genuine, says Massachusetts governor

The governor of Massachusetts has apologised for sending Scotland fans into meltdown by “legalising” haggis.

Maura Healey signed a symbolic executive order alongside Scottish podcaster David McIntosh Jnr at the State House in Boston on Wednesday, declaring the delicacy free to be served in the state.

The Scottish staple is currently illegal in the United States, having been banned under federal food regulations for containing sheep’s lungs.

Excitement over haggis soon flooding the streets of Boston was short-lived after an official statement later clarified that the move was actually a joke.

While haggis remains a distant dream for Americans, the governor has confirmed that their admiration for Scotland “remains genuine”.

“I have received countless messages from Massachusetts residents, Scotland supporters, legal experts, and at least one very concerned sheep regarding my order making haggis legal in Massachusetts”, Ms Healey said on social media.

“After careful review by my office, I am prepared to clarify that this was, in fact, a joke.

“To the Scottish fans who immediately accepted the executive order as entirely reasonable government business, thank you for your confidence in Massachusetts.

“I apologise deeply for any confusion. The good news is that our admiration for Scotland remains genuine, our welcome remains warm, and our enthusiasm for the World Cup remains undiminished.

“I appreciate the public’s understanding as we move forward together and focus on the important work of governing.”

More than 20,000 Scotland fans have travelled to Massachusetts to soak up the World Cup atmosphere.

As well as enjoying the football, the Tartan Army have been making the most of their time in the US, with thousands taking to Fenway Park to watch a Boston Red Sox game.

A number of pubs and bars in the city have reported running low on beer as the thirsty travelling fans caused a surge in demand.

Governor Healey previously said: “The Tartan Army has brought the energy, joy, and enthusiasm to Massachusetts. This is truly what the World Cup is all about.”

She also added: “Between the bagpipes, the kilts, and thousands of Scotland fans turning Boston into their home away from home, the Tartan Army has made quite an impression on Massachusetts.”

Scottish butcher Simon Howie launched a “Make Haggis Legal Again” petition to reinstate the national dish stateside.

A spokesperson said: “Scotland football fans are widely recognised as the best in the world, and they are about to make the trip of a lifetime, but they’ll be doing it without access to their national dish.

“With such warmth and long-standing affinity between Americans and Scots we’re appealing to the USA to embrace this delicious delicacy and Make Haggis Legal Again.”

Nearly 600 people have pledged their support for the campaign.