The Culture Media and Sport Committee has issued a new report which mentions drug use at 'almost 100 per cent' of Premier League stadiums.

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Hooliganism on the rise in British footballTailgating identified as a major concernUnauthorised Entry to Football Matches Bill set to be promulgatedWHAT HAPPENED?

The report also addressed the escalating issue of tailgating – fans without tickets gaining entry – at football stadiums. This might lead to the introduction of a fresh bill in the parliament which will seek to clamp down on hooliganism and unauthorised entry of fans. The report reveals alarming evidence of drug use at several stadiums, prompting a call for heightened vigilance.

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Chief Constable Mark Roberts, head of UK football policing was quoted in the report saying: "There is ample evidence of pretty heavy use at most stadiums. That is through exercises where we swab toilets before, to make sure that they are clean, then swab them after and get an almost 100 per cent hit on them. When we have passive drug dog operations, we find an awful lot of bags discarded."

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Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the CMS Committee, cited the harrowing scenes at the Euros final at Wembley in 2021 and the “disgraceful” treatment meted out Liverpool fans during the 2022 Champions League final in Paris by French police as instances of utmost concern and urged all stakeholders to take stern measures against the offenders.

"Fans flocking to festive fixtures at this time of year should be able to enjoy time with family and friends in sports grounds that are secure, inclusive and welcoming environments," she said.‌

"Sadly, the rise in disorder at football post-pandemic and near disasters that occurred at Wembley and in Paris have shown there is much to be done to ensure a safe time for all. The Government, police, clubs and governing bodies all have a role to play. Tailgating and other forms of unauthorised entry into grounds are an increasing problem at high-profile matches putting safety at risk from overcrowding. ‌Those involved should know that they will face consequences and the Government should back legislation to ensure they can be banned."

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The report highlights the potential dangers of altering current alcohol legislation, which prevents drinking within sight of the pitch at EFL and Premier League grounds. Despite calls to review this stance in Tracey Crouch's fan-led football review, Chief Constable Roberts emphasizes the inherent risks and cautions against lifting the alcohol ban. However, a pilot scheme allowing alcohol sales, primarily targeting smaller clubs and grounds, has been mooted as a potential solution.