An MSP's Call for Law Change to Alleviate Police Burden at Scottish Clubs

In a recent development, an MSP (Members of Scottish Parliament) has called for legislative changes to shift the financial burden of policing public spaces surrounding stadiums to Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) clubs, in light of soaring policing costs. This move is seen as a direct response to the escalating expenses related to the policing of the famous Old Firm matches, a term used to refer to the rivalry between Celtic and Rangers, the two most prominent football clubs in Scotland.

The MSP's call comes at a time when the cost of policing these matches has grown significantly, reaching unsustainable levels. According to the MSP, clubs should contribute a "much fairer share towards the costs of policing the public spaces surrounding their stadiums," acknowledging that the current situation is not sustainable. This suggestion is part of a broader discussion on how to distribute the financial responsibilities among various stakeholders involved in the organization of these high-profile matches.

While the increased costs are attributed to various factors, including incidents of sexism and violence against women, which were included for the first time in the 2025-26 season, the MSP's proposal is aimed at addressing the immediate financial strain on the police. The MSP has emphasized that the current situation is not only a financial burden but also a matter of public safety, as it affects the overall security of the event.

The proposal is part of a growing debate in Scotland regarding the role of private entities in public safety. While some argue that clubs are well-positioned to contribute to the costs, others are concerned about the potential impact on the clubs' financial health and the broader implications for the sport. The MSP has not provided a specific proposal for how the costs should be allocated, but has called for a public consultation to gather input from various stakeholders, including the clubs, the police, and the public.

The proposal has sparked a mixed reaction from the football clubs. While some have expressed willingness to discuss the matter and explore ways to contribute to the costs, others have raised concerns about the potential impact on their operations and the financial viability of the clubs. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing discussions surrounding the future of the Old Firm rivalry and the potential for changes in the structure of the SPFL.

In a related development, the Home Office has provided some insights into the factors driving the increase in policing costs. The Home Office stated that the rise is primarily due to the inclusion of incidents of sexism and violence against women, which were not previously included in the cost calculations. This change reflects a broader shift in the policing priorities, emphasizing the need to address gender-based violence and ensure the safety of all attendees at these high-profile events.

The debate over the distribution of policing costs is not unique to Scotland. Similar discussions are taking place in other countries where major football clubs and events generate significant public interest. The challenge lies in finding a balance between public safety and the financial sustainability of the clubs. The MSP's proposal is part of a larger conversation about the role of public and private entities in ensuring the safety and security of large-scale events.

As the debate continues, it is clear that the issue of policing costs at high-profile football matches is a complex one, involving multiple stakeholders and layers of governance. The MSP's call for legislative changes is a significant step towards addressing the issue, and it is likely to have far-reaching implications for the future of policing at these events.

In conclusion, the MSP's proposal to make SPFL clubs contribute a fair share towards the costs of policing public spaces surrounding their stadiums is a timely and necessary response to the escalating expenses. The debate is expected to continue, with stakeholders from various sectors engaging in discussions to find a solution that balances public safety, financial sustainability, and the interests of the clubs.