The prime minister has described the long-standing rule that prohibits drinking alcohol in football stands as "discrimination" and said there is a case to remove the ban.

The measure, introduced in 1985, bans supporters from consuming alcohol while in the spectator areas. Burnham, identified by name in his remarks, set out his opposition to that established position, characterising the prohibition as discriminatory.

His statement makes clear he does not support the current legislative or regulatory status that bars alcohol in the stands. He explicitly said there is a case for removing the restriction, framing the issue in terms of fairness rather than solely safety or operational concerns.

Those are the only facts provided about his stance: he used the word "discrimination" to describe the ban, and he expressed a belief that it should be reconsidered. The law’s origin date, 1985, was specified as the point from which the prohibition has been in force.

Beyond the prime minister’s assessment and the date the ban took effect, no further policy steps, timing or official responses are detailed here. The record available specifies his opposition and his view that the ban warrants removal, without listing any immediate proposals, votes or administrative actions that might follow.

The prime minister’s language elevates the character of the debate by placing the ban in terms of discrimination, and his assertion that there is a case to remove it is the clearest indication so far of his position on the rule established in 1985. He has set out his view; whether that leads to a formal review, legislative change or other responses has not been detailed.