Jewish community frustrated' with police over handling of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans ban

"West Midlands police did not do themselves any favours when giving evidence to MPs about a decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans, a Birmingham Jewish leader has said. The force's chief constable, Craig Guildford, is facing growing calls from MPs and Jewish groups to resign after further details emerged about the circumstances surrounding a ban on away fans attending the Europa League match against Aston Villa at Villa Park on 6 November."

"The police did not do themselves any favours yesterday [at the home affairs select committee] she said. They didn't really explain their position clearly which left me feeling confused. The ban and subsequent revelations have caused a lot of frustration, anger, disappointment, confusion among Jewish people in the West Midlands, Jacobs added. Some members felt this very strongly and are advocating for further action, including for the chief constable to resign, although many did not share this view, she said."

West Midlands Police banned Maccabi Tel Aviv away fans from the Europa League match at Villa Park on 6 November. Senior officers told MPs the ban was based on safety and not politically influenced, but MPs challenged the force over evidence that appeared one-sided and which MPs said inflated the threat from Maccabi fans. Chief Constable Craig Guildford defended the decision amid growing resignation calls from MPs and Jewish groups. Ruth Jacobs said the rationale for the ban remained unclear, that the police did not explain their position clearly, and that the outcome caused frustration, anger and calls for further action.

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