Prime Minister Expresses Concern Over Police Ban on Maccabi Fans

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has voiced significant concerns regarding the West Midlands Police’s handling of a ban that prevented Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending their recent match against Aston Villa. In an exclusive interview, Starmer expressed his unease about the information provided by the police to justify this decision, stating, “I’m very concerned and troubled by what we’re seeing in terms of the intelligence reporting.”

Starmer emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to uncover the facts surrounding the ban, adding, “I think we need to get to the bottom of that to find out exactly what happened.” He underscored that scrutiny should extend beyond a single police force, highlighting the necessity of assessing the quality of intelligence used in making such critical decisions.

Earlier reports indicated that the Mayor of Amsterdam had raised doubts about the data utilized by West Midlands Police, questioning the rationale behind their support for the ban. In response to criticism from Simon Foster, the Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands, Starmer firmly defended his stance, asserting that it is essential for all fans to safely attend matches and to be treated equally. Foster had claimed that the Prime Minister’s comments heightened the risks associated with the fixture, an assertion Starmer rejected outright.

During the interview, which took place at Bushey United Synagogue, Starmer spent over two hours engaging with community members of various ages and backgrounds. He listened to their experiences of prejudice, which repeatedly pointed to a common theme: antisemitism. “They gave up their time for me to hear that, and I’ve undertaken to them that that will be something I will mull over, take away, and see what more we can do,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister was particularly struck by the cultural implications of these experiences, noting that many Jewish individuals in the UK feel compelled to conceal their identities due to rising hostility. He affirmed his commitment to collaborating with affected communities to ensure that the UK remains a place where they feel safe and secure.

Additionally, Starmer addressed the recent pro-Palestine demonstration outside St John’s Wood Synagogue. While he stopped short of endorsing claims of “two-tier policing,” he acknowledged the need for a review of police powers concerning protests. He stated, “It is important that the government look at what powers the police have in relation to protests and whether the powers that are already available are being used to their full extent and appropriately and consistently.”

Starmer indicated that there is a strong sentiment about the cumulative impact of repeated protests, prompting a need for a comprehensive examination of both existing regulations and potential additional powers. This review is currently being undertaken by the Home Secretary.

The Prime Minister’s comments reflect a broader concern regarding community safety and the responsibilities of law enforcement in maintaining public order during events that attract significant attention.