Question reference: S6W-23065
- Asked by: Sharon Dowey, MSP for South Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 15 December 2023
-
Current status: Answered by Siobhian Brown on 20 December 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of its policy of "working closely with the football authorities and clubs…to address unacceptable conduct by spectators", what its position is on whether the booing that was heard during the minute's silence at the Celtic v Aberdeen match held on 12 November 2023 was "unacceptable conduct", and what discussions it has had with (a) Celtic FC and (b) the Scottish Football Association regarding this.
Answer
We routinely speak to the Scottish footballing authorities on wide a range of topics, including the behaviour of fans. It should be noted that the majority of supporters across the country go to football to support their team in a safe and responsible manner and that incidents, such as booing during commemorative events, are the actions of a minority. Nevertheless we condemn such actions.
As this match falls under the auspices of the Scottish Professional Football League, it is for them to investigate any incidents and take any appropriate actions against the clubs. Any individuals identified as engaging in criminal behaviour during these investigations will be reported to the police. We have not spoken to either Celtic FC, the Scottish FA or the SPFL about this specific incident.
Clubs are taking action when they can and we welcome the decision by Celtic to ban sections of their fans who, despite numerous requests by the club, continued to demonstrate anti-social behaviour. We would support other clubs in taking similar actions where appropriate.