MPs Seek Clarification on Ban of Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans
Inquiry into Police Decision
Members of Parliament are calling for more clarity from West Midlands Police regarding the prohibition of Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending a Europa League match at Aston Villa that took place last month. The local Safety Advisory Group (SAG) made the decision to prohibit away fans based on police recommendations, which has led figures such as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to call for a review of the situation.
Evidence Presented and Concerns Raised
On December 1, the Home Affairs Committee gathered information related to the decision-making process and has since reached out to West Midlands Police, the SAG, and the UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) for further insights on several matters. Committee chair Karen Bradley has requested that Chief Constable Craig Guildford clarify statements made by Assistant Chief Constable Mike O’Hara. O’Hara noted that police were informed by members of the Jewish community opposing the attendance of Maccabi fans at the match.
In response to these claims, the police issued a statement to clarify O’Hara’s earlier remarks, indicating that it was not the officer’s intention to suggest that the Jewish community had collectively supported the decision to exclude Maccabi supporters.
Official Requests for Clarification
In her correspondence to the Chief Constable, dated Wednesday, Bradley requested elucidation on O’Hara’s comments, emphasizing that the assertion about Jewish representatives objecting to Maccabi fans was now understood to be incorrect. She remarked, “It is a serious matter to mislead Parliament, intentionally or otherwise, and we would appreciate a correction of the record along with an explanation regarding this error.”
A spokesperson for the force confirmed receipt of the Home Affairs Committee’s letter and stated they would respond in due course.
Related Incidents
- Aston Villa versus Maccabi Tel Aviv: Police make 11 arrests at the match
- Maccabi Tel Aviv expresses dissatisfaction with their early arrival at the Aston Villa event
- UK Government expresses disappointment as Maccabi declines tickets for Villa Park
Further Inquiries to SAG and UKFPU
Bradley has reached out to the SAG for the minutes from three meetings concerning the fixture, along with confirmation on whether they reviewed a report from Lord Mann—an independent adviser on antisemitism focused on a previous match involving Ajax and Maccabi.
The UKFPU has been requested to provide details of discussions it had with Lord Mann, clarify why his report was not forwarded to West Midlands Police, and share any communications with Maccabi and Israeli authorities, including whether they were made aware that Maccabi ultras did not intend to attend the match.
The UKFPU has been approached for comments regarding these inquiries.
