A member of the Labour Party representing Hillsborough families has cautioned against the repercussions of disregarding safety concerns at football stadiums. Paula Barker, the MP for Liverpool Wavertree, referenced the 1989 Hillsborough tragedy when discussing the recent situation involving Israeli fans attending a football match in Birmingham. This issue arose after Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters were prohibited from attending a Europa League match against Aston Villa due to safety worries.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy assured that the Government is committed to providing the necessary support for police to ensure the safety of fans at the upcoming match. She expressed dismay over the decision being influenced by the fans’ Israeli and Jewish identities. In a parliamentary session, Ms. Barker drew parallels to the Hillsborough disaster, emphasizing the importance of addressing and not neglecting safety concerns.
Regarding the Maccabi Tel Aviv case, Ms. Barker stressed the significance of safety advisory groups and the potential risks of disregarding safety advice. She questioned the government’s attempt to override such guidance and highlighted an incident in Israel involving Maccabi Tel Aviv fans and violent disturbances.
Ms. Nandy refuted claims of overriding safety advice and emphasized the collaborative efforts with West Midlands Police and local partners to ensure a safe environment for the match attendees. She affirmed the government’s dedication to prioritizing the safety of all fans and the broader community.
Furthermore, Ms. Nandy rejected the notion that resources would dictate whether Maccabi Tel Aviv fans could attend the match, emphasizing the principle of inclusivity for all individuals in the country. She acknowledged the prevailing antisemitism concerns globally and in Manchester, underscoring the need for a thorough risk assessment process to allow both teams’ fans to attend securely.