'Not a chance. Would be covered in beer' - Portsmouth faithful react as Andy Burnham wants to scrap stadiums alcohol rule
Football fans, including Pompey supporters, have not been allowed to drink alcohol in the stands since 1985
Pompey fans have been sharing their views on the potential of alcohol being consumed in the stands again during games.
A national debate has broken out on the subject after Prime Minister Andy Burnham this week said football fans were being discriminated against by being denied the opportunity to have a pint while watching their team in action on a match day.
Stadium laws remain in place which prevent drinking in view of the pitch for clubs who compete in the top five tiers of English football.
The legislation was introduced by former PM Margaret Thatcher in 1985 when alcohol was considered to be a major contributory factor to violent and disorderly behaviour within football grounds.
Other sports do not face such a restriction, with Everton season-ticket holder Burnham believing football fans remain unfairly treated as a result.
It’s understood that Burnham’s opinion on the matter does not represent a policy announcement by the current government.
Nevertheless, it has got fans talking, with the Fratton faithful adding their weight to the discussion.
We asked them specifically via our Facebook page if they would like to see drinking back in the stands of Fratton Park?
Here’s a fair representation of how they responded...
Douglas King: Keep it at the bar. If you can't sit still for 45 mins each half without a beer you have a problem.
Tim Green: Firmly against. Love Beer, love football, but leave it separate!
Jamie Miller: No, would have people going to and from the bar constantly whilst trying to watch the game.
Don't really want to miss any big moments in matches letting others past because some can't go 2 hours without a pint.
Its bad enough already before half time, also will always be the minority who will take it too far, it’s not worth it
Mick O'Shaughnessy: No thanks! If I wanted a beer shampoo, I'd do it in the shower at home. Keep it in the concourse!
George Mcintyre: That would be great! In fact, if I can I will 100% vote Labour in all elections from here on.
Ian Hockin: No. Watching sport and alcohol in seats isn’t a great mix. At the venue in bar area fine, but not in seats.
Lee Bialas: Not for me! I'd rather stay sober and dry and watch the full 90 minutes without getting soaked in lager. There's always time for a drink or two before the match, after it, or even both.
Ashley Donald: No, because kids and everyone would be covered in beer after a goal or loss.
Richard Bucksey: If we have many more games like Derby, then yes.
However, generally no. People will be lobbing them about and up and down to the bar and loos like yo-yos. Just wait for half-time.
Janster Foster: No. Have a beer before or after the game (or both) but not necessary during.
I am another who doesn't want a beer shampoo!
Charlie McAvery: My only concern is spillage when scoring, getting soaked in alcohol and being with children.
Duncan Fitch: Definitely for it, how it used to be. Also it’ll increase revenue for the club!
I’ve been to Reading’s ground for rugby and they had portable beer pumps serving you in your seat!
The irony is that it is a football stadium and they had to put these pumps away for football but okay for the rugby!!
Colin Shaw: Not a chance, unless the club will pay for the clothes to be cleaned every time beer is thrown.
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