Scottish Greens call for end to alcohol and gambling advertising at football
It is time to end alcohol and gambling advertising in football, according to the Scottish Greens.
The call comes in the same week as the Scottish Government has launched a consultation that could see alcohol advertising banned across public spaces.
It also follows research from Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems which has found that of the 12 football teams in the men’s Scottish Premiership, six have at least one alcohol industry main sponsor or partner.
The Scottish Greens health spokesperson, Gillian Mackay MSP, said:
“Football is for everyone, and our biggest clubs should be too. That is why the Scottish Government’s consultation is such a timely and important one
“Football teams have a huge influence on young people and their communities, which is why they need to think about the message they are sending out and the brands and products they are endorsing.
“Nobody should be bombarded with alcohol advertising when they are going to watch their team. It’s not just football, the same goes for rugby and other family-friendly sports.
“I'm pleased that some of the football clubs in the region I represent have totally eliminated this form of advertising and some others are working towards it.
“Tobacco sponsorship was rightly ended years ago. What worries me is not just the role of alcohol companies, but also the rise we are seeing in gambling company branding on match days. These are controlled and addictive industries, and should have no place in our beautiful game.”