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BOURNEMOUTH MP Tom Hayes has called upon Prime Minister Andy Burnham to scrap the 3pm blackout on the broadcast of professional football games in the UK – while taking a cheeky jab at the PM’s beloved Everton.
The 3pm blackout means that there is no legal way for football fans to watch games in the Premier League or Football League on television which kick off at 3pm on a Saturday, meaning many resort to illegal streaming.
This policy is not in place abroad, meaning international fans are able to watch every single game in the Premier League, for instance.
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This is often for a much cheaper cost than the price UK-based fans pay for their Sky Sports and TNT Sports packages, even without those 3pm games.
Bournemouth East MP Hayes has written to PM Burnham to ask him to consider scrapping the policy.
"You have already stood up for fans against the corporate giants interested only in profit," Hayes said.
(Image: Tom Hayes)
"By opposing Gianni Infantino’s outrageous plan to sell off the World Cup, you helped protect football’s crown jewels.
"I’m now asking you to go further and end the hated 3pm blackout.
"The 1960s-era law that stops matches from being broadcast on television between 2.45pm and 5.15pm on Saturdays is a relic of another time.
"It was meant to get fans through the turnstiles. These days, they just get round it by finding illegal livestreams online."
Hayes said ending the policy could help boost pubs and hospitality by allowing them to show more games.
File photo dated 19/04/09 of Everton chairman Bill Kenwright (right) celebrates victory in the stands with Culture Secretary Andy Burnham during the FA Cup semi final between Manchester United and Everton, at Wembley Stadium.
(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)
"Our government has already modernised the laws governing the game through the Football Governance Act 2025, introducing tougher owners’ and directors’ tests, protecting clubs’ heritage, protecting fan involvement, and setting up an Independent Football Regulator," Hayes said.
"I now urge you to build on this progress and consign the 3pm blackout to history."
The Bournemouth MP added a cheeky handwritten note to his letter: "While I wish you every success as Prime Minister, allow me to assure you that I am hoping for nothing more than a resounding defeat for the Toffees when they play AFC Bournemouth in 11 days’ time!!"