Celtic join Rangers in slamming UK Government proposals and share fan concerns over supporters bus restrictions

Celtic have backed fans in their stance against Tory Government plans to severely restrict what supporters travelling on buses can and can't do when heading to games.

'Guidelines for taking passengers to sporting events in Scotland’ were published in documents last week and will severely impact away days for fans across the country if they are implemented. These include banning buses from stopping at pubs en route to games unless granted permission by the Dedicated Football Officer. Alcohol would not be sold to fans either, unless served with a "substantial meal."

The proposals have been met with widespread condemnation from across the Scottish football spectrum. The Scottish FA, SPFL, SWPL and Rangers have released statements calling for the suggestions to be scrapped. Now Celtic have weighed in and share concerns of their fans. A statement read: "Celtic FC are closely monitoring the proposed new rules for fans travelling to matches on public hire vehicles, which have been issued by the Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain.

"Celtic has discussed these proposals with groups representing the interests of supporters travelling to matches, including the Celtic Supporters’ Association, the Affiliation of Registered Supporters' Clubs and our supporters' groups in Ireland. The Club shares our supporters' serious concerns that these proposed measures would do nothing more than demonise football fans, unnecessarily targeting one particular sport and its supporters.

"Supporters are the lifeblood of the game, with thousands each weekend contributing positively to the sport in Scotland, yet these proposals would negatively affect a large proportion of supporters travelling to matches. Celtic will engage robustly with the