GREEN MSP Gillian Mackay, who has led a campaign to get all of Scotland’s national football games on free-to-view TV, has urged the Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, to work with her to deliver on the call.
Mackay’s long-running campaign to end the reliance on subscription streaming services or pay-to-view channels has been backed by MPs, MSPs and supporters across Scotland.
Murray has previously indicated support for putting Scotland’s international matches on free-to-view TV.
In 2016 he told the media “I fully appreciate that terrestrial television can’t compete with the vast sums of money on offer from the likes of BT and Sky but I’m sure some accommodation could be made to ensure everyone can share in Scottish international sporting events.”
In a letter to the Secretary of State, Mackay has urged him to meet with campaigners, the Scottish Football Association and broadcasters to help make football for all a reality.
Mackay said: “Increasingly, fans are being priced out of our game. From the extortionate ticket prices on the gate to the endless costly streaming services to watch at home. Something needs to change.
“I am glad that so many people have joined me in calling for Scotland’s international games to be shown live on free-to-view TV. Sport is meant to be for everyone, and this is the most effective way to ensure Scotland’s next generation of footballers can feel inspired to dream of playing for their country.
“We have seen that in the rise of women’s football. The regular TV slots have helped to make it a regular fixture for lots of women, girls and families, and has encouraged them to take up the sport, and support their local teams.
“By listing Scotland National Team games as ‘national events’ in the same way that we do with the Euros and Scottish Cup Final, we could allow public broadcasters to share the rights alongside private companies such as Sky, TNT and Premier Sport.
“I hope that the Secretary of State will join this campaign and use the power and influence he has to give Scottish fans the gift of football, and make our most iconic game accessible for all, not just for those that can afford it.”