British police chief reiterates 'legitimate' decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans

The head of a police force at the centre of a row over a ban on Israeli football fans has defended his decision in front of British MPs.

West Midlands police banned fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv from attending the club's fixture against Birmingham-based club Aston Villa on 6 November over fears of violence in the city.

Chief Constable Craig Guildford and Assistant Chief Constable Mike O’Hara appeared before the British parliament's Home Affairs Select Committee to explain their decision to ban Maccabi fans.

The decision sparked outrage within government and amongst the right-wing media establishment, with Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy making unfounded claims that the decision was influenced by antisemitism.

Guildford said the decision was not taken lightly and it was a "necessary tactic with a legitimate aim, absolutely not antisemitic, rather a carefully considered, legitimate and necessary measure to ensure public safety".

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