The UK's head of football policing is calling for a law change that would force football clubs – and not the taxpayer – to fund a £58m shortfall.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts says it is ‘unjust’ for the public ‘to have to subsidise such a rich industry’ - with forces currently only able to charge for services provided inside stadiums and on club property.
‘They do not have to pay a penny towards the policing of surrounding streets, city centres or towards the increasing marches to stadiums by fans,’ Mr Roberts said.
‘When you think about the number of stadiums that back on to public land that does not make any sense.