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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
George Lithgow

‘Political pressure’ may have influenced decision to ban Maccabi fans, MPs say

Local political pressure may have played a part in the decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv football fans from attending a match against Aston Villa, a committee of MPs has concluded.

Birmingham councillors had a “disproportionate opportunity to exert influence”, undermining trust that decision-making was based on evidence and safety, the Home Affairs Committee said.

Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were barred from travelling to the game against Aston Villa at Villa Park on November 6 by the local safety advisory group (SAG), which cited safety concerns based on advice from West Midlands Police (WMP).

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