‘Common sense prevails’ as supporters bus plan axed

A consultation into proposed changes to how sports fans can use private hire buses has been scrapped after an outcry from fans, football authorities and politicians.

The proposals from the Traffic Commissioner for Great Britain were met with cross-party opposition north of the border, with First Minister Humza Yousaf saying they were “ludicrous” and “unworkable” and Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross branding them “insulting”.

The consultation on changes to voluntary guidance proposed that fans travellingonbusestogames would not be allowed to stop at pubs unless a “substantial meal” was served.

The proposals, which the commissioner had said were being made on the grounds of “safety”, would have also required fans to arrive at a match between one and two hours before kick-off and leave within 30 minutes of the end.

But a statement from the commissioner yesterday afternoon said: “I have listened to the strength of feeling expressed and it is clear to me that there is further work required to understand the full impact of the introduction of any proposed guidance in Scotland.

“As a result, I have asked my officials to cease this consultation exercise.”

Football clubs and bodies such as the Scottish Football Association (SFA), the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) and the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL), spoke out against the proposals.

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “I welcome this sensible decision from the Transport Commissioner.

“I’m very glad that the