Scottish government rejects £4m request for facial recognition scheme at football stadiums

The SPFL had pursued the idea as a way of tackling sectarian singing and the use of smoke and flares.

In January it set up a working group at a meeting of all 42 clubs. However, several of them told BBC Scotland they thought the scheme was too expensive and over the top.

The government has now rejected the request, saying: “We remain committed to working with football authorities, clubs and Police Scotland to support them in tackling unacceptable behaviour.

“But, ultimately, the responsibility lies with the authorities and clubs.”

The statement followed discussions between the government, the Scottish Football Association and the SPFL.

“It is clear that we would not financially support the introduction of facial recognition technology in football stadia,” the statement added.

“We do, however, welcome continued engagement with the football authorities to discuss the practical action they are taking to address the continuing issue of unacceptable conduct at Scottish matches.”

A spokesman for the SFPL said it had had a “positive meeting” with the government to discuss measures to tackle bad behaviour at matches.

He added: “The SPFL’s submission of tentative funding costs - specifically for technology to assist with identification of individuals engaged in unacceptable conduct - followed previous discussions with the Scottish government where we built on quotes based on the top two divisions only.

“We remain committed to tackling unacceptable conduct where it occurs in SPFL grounds - indeed, an independent commission recently found Motherwell FC guilty of breaches of SPFL rules in this area.

“The overwhelming majority of Scottish football supporters behave impeccably, are the best possible ambassadors for our national sport and are a force for positive change.

“We remain keen to work in partnership and on an ongoing basis with the Scottish government and others to tackle unacceptable conduct and to use the unique power of football and of football clubs in their local communities to assist with tackling other positive changes in society, including in health, lifestyle and wellbeing.”