Bournemouth MP Hayes urges PM Andy Burnham to scrap 3pm blackout | OneFootball

Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to scrap the 3pm blackout on live football broadcasts, arguing the decades-old restriction is outdated. The ban does not apply overseas, where every Premier League fixture is available on television.

According to Bournemouth Echo, Hayes set out his case in a letter, praising Burnham for standing up for fans against corporate giants and for opposing Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell off the World Cup.

He described the 1960s rule that blocks TV coverage between 2.45pm and 5.15pm on Saturdays as a relic, saying it was intended to drive attendances but now pushes supporters towards illegal livestreams.

Hayes added that ending the blackout could boost pubs and hospitality by allowing them to show more games. He noted the Football Governance Act 2025 has introduced tougher owners’ and directors’ tests, heritage protections, fan involvement and an Independent Football Regulator.

He urged Burnham to build on that progress and consign the blackout to history. The MP signed off with a cheeky note to the Everton-supporting Prime Minister, wishing him success while hoping for a resounding defeat for the Toffees against AFC Bournemouth in 11 days.

Source: Bournemouth Echo

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