The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Simon Foster, has welcomed the Government’s response to the Home Affairs Committee’s report into the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban, which recognises the significant steps taken regionally to build public confidence and strengthen policing processes.
The Government response highlights the robust action taken by the PCC and West Midlands Police, including oversight and scrutiny provided by the PCC through his Accountability and Governance Board, engagement with affected communities and a review of operational decision-making and intelligence processes.
West Midlands PCC, Simon Foster, said: “I welcome the Government’s recognition of the serious and sustained work undertaken here in the West Midlands to address the concerns raised following the Aston Villa v Maccabi Tel Aviv match.
“As Police and Crime Commissioner, it is my responsibility to hold the Chief Constable to account on behalf of the public. I have ensured there has been detailed and essential oversight and scrutiny of the decisions taken, and that clear assurances have been provided on the lessons learned.
“Building trust and confidence across the region, particularly within our Jewish communities and everyone affected, remains a top priority. I was pleased to meet with representatives of the Jewish community again last week to listen to their experiences, discuss progress and ensure their voices continue to shape the response moving forward.
“West Midlands Police have taken important steps to strengthen their processes, improve transparency and enhance engagement. I will continue to provide active and meaningful oversight and scrutiny to ensure that these improvements are fully embedded.”
The Commissioner added: “I also welcome the Government’s commitment to reviewing and strengthening guidance for Safety Advisory Groups. It is vital that these arrangements are clear, consistent and robust, particularly for high-risk or sensitive events. I look forward to further progress in this area to ensure that lessons are learned nationally as well as locally.”
The PCC will continue to work closely with West Midlands Police, all communities and partners within the region and national partners, to ensure that concerns are fully addressed and that confidence in policing is not only built but maintained.
