§ Mr. Pollockasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the introduction of the measures contained in part V of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980 has brought about any improvement in behaviour at football matches; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. YoungerI am most encouraged by the reports which I have received from the football authorities and from the police which indicate clearly that the new measures, which have been in effect only since 1 February 1981, have led to a marked improvement in behaviour at sports grounds throughout Scotland. There is less evidence of drunkenness and of drink-related offensive behaviour both at designated grounds and on coaches travelling to and from those grounds.
It is imperative that this good start be maintained during the forthcoming season. If spectators continue to co-operate so readily with the police, the football authorities and the clubs themselves, I am sure that we can look to further success in these efforts to bring about a return to civilised behaviour at football matches.