Meeting of the Parliament 11 November 2025
I welcome the Scottish Government getting ahead of the game and introducing the bill. I was involved in the previous Commonwealth games in Scotland. We were told in 2008 that they would happen, and the six years until they did just zoomed by—they passed really quickly. The preparation work paid off in the end, however. I am sure that the organisers will appreciate the action that the Government is going to take.
Until I took up a political career, I was heavily involved in the current preparations in Glasgow, so I know that the staff involved regard major events there as business as usual, because there are so many happening, be they football, the Commonwealth games or cycling championships. However, the staff must be commended for how they carry out their duties.
I join the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee in asking the Scottish Government to consider introducing generic legislation to cover large events, which would save a lot of wasted time if we have another big event soon—co-hosting the women’s world cup in 2035 being an example. It would be better to have tailor-made legislation for large events, rather than just a specific law for football that covers advertising and security provisions. That would mean not having to waste the Parliament’s time for every single event. Although we have not seen proposals for women’s events, we should liaise now with the SFA to ensure that women’s football in Scotland is adequately represented.
The proposed limitations on profiting from ticket sales are welcome. The effect on charities that auction off tickets has been mentioned, and we should take that into consideration. I am keen to hear how the Scottish Government can work with the organisers to ensure that a selection of affordable tickets is made available through schools and local clubs, including those covering a range of disability facilities, so that the tournament can be as inclusive as possible.
I remind members of the disappointing actions of a minority of football fans during the 2020 Euro finals—which were held in 2021, because of Covid. I would like to see assurances that that kind of behaviour will not be seen in 2028. I believe that it is for ministers to have that discussion with the organisers, Glasgow City Council and the police.
My thanks to the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee for its oversight of the bill at this early stage. More work is needed to provide assurances to market traders, local businesses and fans, especially in communications about the proposed legislation. However, I am quite happy to support the general principles of the bill at stage 1.