The alcohol ban in Scotland could eventually be lifted after being in place for 45 years.
The Herald has exclusively revealed Police Scotland are open to discussions about having the law changed and allowing football fans to enjoy a beer inside the stadium.
It hasn’t been allowed in Scotland since 1980 and many people feel it is time for people to be offered the opportunity of a drink at the game.
But why was the ban brought into place in the first place and what does the current law mean for supporters?
Why was the ban brought into place?
The ban was introduced in response to the riots which followed Celtic's extra time win over Rangers in the 1980 Scottish Cup Final at Hampden. Mounted police charged across the pitch to halt battling fans, who initially entered the field of play to celebrate before fighting broke out.
What are the current rules on drinking alcohol at football?
The ban is covered in The Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 1995 which makes it illegal to carry alcohol into a football stadium, to consume alcohol within sight of a football pitch, to enter a football stadium under the influence of alcohol or to drink alcohol, while on 'official' transport to football matches (ie. a supporters' bus).
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Alcohol can be purchased and consumed in a stadium or ground's hospitality areas - but not while a match is in play.
A number of clubs in the league also currently have fanzones outside the ground where alcohol can be purchased.
What has the current Scottish Government said?
Last September, First Minister John Swinney said: "We have no plans to go down such a route because it's important that we take all necessary steps that we can to ensure that we address the country's relationship with alcohol and that we have a safe and supportive sporting environment for all.”
"We don't believe now is the right time to reintroduce alcohol into football.
"The fact is that when we were selling alcohol at football matches there were many more problems in terms of crowd behaviour than there is today.
"We have made a lot of progress so let's not turn the clock back. Let's keep with that progress, keep it a family game and if people then want to do for a drink after the game then they are free to do so."
What could a new law change?
An amended law could see football fans allowed to drink in the concourse. Fans in England are allowed to drink at football matches but they are not allowed to take their drinks to their seats, with it sold in plastic so there is less likely to be any damage caused by someone potentially throwing it towards the pitch.
