The move would be an attempt to tackle football hooliganism

The move follows a call from Scotland's chief police officers to bring Scots law into line with England and Wales.

Banning orders in England and Wales currently affect about 2,500 and police report a large drop in incidents.

In Scotland, clubs can stop fans going to their own ground and a sheriff can impose a ban in his court district.

Broadly in favour

So, if a sheriff in Glasgow imposed an Anti-Social Behaviour Order on a person it could stop them going to matches in the city, but not from attending matches in other towns and cities.

Ministers are considering introducing legislation to widen the powers of sheriff courts to allow bans to be imposed for up to 10 years.

The bans would also cover all football stadia in Scotland.

The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (Acpos) said it would be broadly in favour of such a measure.

We need to ensure that the police have the right tools and powers to deal effectively with these people Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson

The executive said that, although no decision has yet been taken, it is being "closely" considered.

A spokesman for Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said: "We know that there is a small hardcore of people in our communities who couldn't care less about other people - never mind the game of football.

"So we can't be complacent. We need to ensure that the police have the right tools and powers to deal effectively with these people and the unwelcome stain they leave on our national game and our national image.

"That's why now is the right time to look again at the range of measures available, including banning orders."