HC Deb 04 April 1985 vol 76 cc722-3W
Mr. Peter Bruinvels

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will introduce legislation to amend the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 so as to provide the police with the power to stop and search persons who are reasonably suspected of having alcohol in their possession at or in the immediate vicinity of sports stadiums.

Mr. Giles Shaw

The Government intend to introduce legislation similar to that which now applies in Scotland which makes it an offence to attempt to enter a designated sports ground while drunk or possessing alcohol. This legislation also gives the police power to search persons reasonably suspected of such offences.

Mr. Peter Bruinvels

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received from the Association of Chief Police Officers regarding the provisions of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 on the power of police officers to conduct blanket searches at or in the immediate vicinity of sports stadiums; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Giles Shaw

I will reply as soon as possible.