Rangers slam 'draconian' proposed new rules on supporters buses
Rangers have issued a statement over the potential new rules.
Last updated 6th Sep 2023
Rangers have slammed proposed new restrictions on supporter buses and labelled the potential new measures as ‘draconian’.
Reactions have been pouring in from across the Scottish footballing world after the UK Government published a consultation document on the traffic commissioners proposed new ‘guidelines for taking passengers to sporting events in Scotland’.
The new rules would impose restrictions on buses carrying fans to games in Scotland, and include measures such as the organisers of a supporters bus having to liase with Police about their intention to travel, strict times on stadium arrival, and not allowing travelling supporters to stop somewhere for a beer without having a ‘substantial meal.
The Scottish FA have raised concerns about the new rules, while politicians have labelled them as ‘unworkable’.
Now, Rangers Football Club have had responded, and say it will harm more than just the experience of football fans in Scotland.
A spokesperson for the club said: “Rangers is deeply concerned with these draconian proposals from the Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain which would undoubtedly have a negative effect on a significant number of our supporters attending the matches of any of our teams.
“A standard men’s home fixture at Ibrox has around 200 coaches attend, and the management of this under these proposals would be extraordinarily difficult. For men’s away matches, where up to 60 coaches may travel, there could be significant damage to small, local businesses where coaches often stop en-route.
“These proposals place unreasonable demands on football fans that would not be asked of any other section of the population. The club can confirm it will make strong representations through the appropriate channels expressing our sincere disapproval of these suggested new rules.”
Rival politicians unite to fend off rules.
The proposals seem to have united Scottish Football and politicians alike, with all clubs, fans and MSPS who've commented so far sharing the same opinion.
Leader of the Scottish Tories Douglas Ross said: "These ludicrous plans are completely disproportionate.
"The proposals make no sense for the Scottish game and should be scrapped immediately. I’ve made that clear to the UK government."
While MP Alan Brown, who has previously run supporters buses of his own has also hit out at the rules saying it only demonizes Scottish Football Fans.
He said: "This would be a complete and utter waste of police time and resources. As someone who ran a supporters' bus for 26 years and still regularly travels to away games via this avenue, it will simply not work - total madness."
Minister for Sport in Scotland Maree Todd said: "I share Scottish Football Authorities & fans concerns over the UKGov’s Traffic Commissioners proposals to introduce new rules targeting Scottish football fans
"ScotGov was not consulted by them prior to publication.
"I will ensure the vast majority of law-abiding fans are heard."
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