Rangers have moved to condemn controversial proposals by the UK government's traffic commissioner to further regulate the behaviour of travelling Scottish football fans.
A public UK government submission to add further strictures for those travelling on fan buses was made widely available on Monday night.
It suggests Scotland be brought in line with regulations in England and Wales who have stricter controls but a crucial difference in match day experience is neither country has our strict enforcement of alcohol rules in stadiums.
While Scottish clubs can't sell alcohol to fans in grounds ahead of the game, supporters in England can enjoy an alcoholic beverage in concourses.
The news was brought to light by Motherwell's Well Society director Derek Watson who used his Twitter account to publicise the situation.
A storm of protest followed with fans of every persuasion across the country reacting with fury at what the Ibrox club decry as 'draconian' measures. In an unusual move, even the SFA and the SPFL have joined forces to reject the suggestions.
And Rangers have added their voice by decrying the situation.
A spokesperson said: “Rangers is deeply concerned with these draconian proposals from the traffic commissioners for Great Britain which would undoubtedly have a negative effect on a significant number of our supporters attending the matches of any of our teams.
“A standard men’s home fixture at Ibrox has around 200 coaches attend, and the management of this under these proposals would be extraordinarily difficult. For men’s away matches, where up to 60 coaches may travel, there could be significant damage to small, local businesses where coaches often stop en-route.
“These proposals place unreasonable demands on football fans that would not be asked of any other section of the population. The club can confirm it will make strong representations through the appropriate channels expressing our sincere disapproval of these suggested new rules."
The Scottish Government were left in the dark over the consultation.
A statement reads: “The Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain have failed to involve the Scottish Government in this consultation.
"We are now discussing the proposals with fans organisations, football authorities, Police Scotland, the Football Safety Officers Association, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, and hospitality trade bodies.”
