The federal government says it’s exploring what “additional resources and support are required” to permit “all fans” to attend Maccabi Tel Aviv’s match towards Aston Villa subsequent month.
Supporters of the Israeli aspect have been informed they aren’t allowed to attend November’s sport in Birmingham after a choice by Birmingham’s Security Advisory Group (SAG).
The group – made up of native stakeholders, together with representatives from the council, police and occasion organisers – mentioned the choice was attributable to a excessive threat of violence based mostly on “current intelligence and previous incidents”.
Politics stay: MPs react to Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban
The choice has been criticised throughout the political spectrum, with Sir Keir Starmer describing it as a “wrong decision” whereas Tory opposition chief Kemi Badenoch known as it a “national disgrace”.
In an announcement on Friday night time, a authorities spokesperson mentioned: “No one should be stopped from watching a football game simply because of who they are.
“The federal government is working with policing and different companions to do all the pieces in our energy to make sure this sport can safely go forward, with all followers current.
“We are exploring what additional resources and support are required so all fans can attend.”
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Birmingham residents react to the Maccabi fan ban
In the meantime, Residence Secretary Shabana Mahmood mentioned: “Antisemitism is a stain on our society that shames us all. Each soccer fan, whoever they’re, ought to have the ability to watch their crew in security.
“This government is doing everything in our power to ensure all fans can safely attend the game.”
The prime minister’s spokesman beforehand mentioned Sir Keir would “do everything in his power to give Jewish communities the security they deserve”.
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Badenoch: Fan ban a ‘nationwide shame’
The Residence Workplace provided to offer extra police for the occasion, whereas Tradition Secretary Lisa Nandy and Communities Secretary Steve Reed additionally intervened.
Nevertheless, senior police insisted the ban was needed and cited clashes and hate crime offences dedicated when the Israeli crew travelled to Amsterdam to play Ajax final yr.
The Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv match – set to happen on Thursday 6 November – is a Europa League fixture.
UEFA, which runs the match, had urged UK authorities to make sure away followers may attend.
