West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford has issued an apology to Members of Parliament for providing incorrect evidence regarding the decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from a Europa League match against Aston Villa in November.
The Error in Evidence
Chief Constable Guildford and Assistant Chief Constable Mike O'Hara initially informed the Home Affairs Committee that erroneous intelligence, which referenced a non-existent match between West Ham and Maccabi Tel Aviv, was identified via a Google search. Guildford later corrected this, stating in a letter to committee chairwoman Dame Karen Bradley that the "erroneous result" originated from the use of the artificial intelligence tool Microsoft CoPilot.
This correction follows Guildford's previous testimony on January 6, where he denied the force used artificial intelligence in its processes.
Background of the Ban
Supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv were prohibited from attending the match at Villa Park by the local Safety Advisory Group (SAG), acting on police advice. This advice included the incorrect reference to a West Ham match. The SAG's decision, comprising representatives from the council, police, and other authorities, generated political controversy.
Home Secretary's Statement and Watchdog Findings
The Home Secretary stated she has lost confidence in the head of West Midlands Police. Addressing the Commons, she cited findings by the policing watchdog, Chief Inspector of Constabulary Sir Andy Cooke. The report indicated "confirmation bias" in the force's decision to ban fans.
According to the Home Secretary, Cooke's report found:
- "A failure of leadership."
- Little engagement with the Jewish community, particularly in Birmingham, before the decision was made.
- The force sought only evidence to support a desired ban, rather than following all evidence.
- The police overstated the threat from Maccabi Tel Aviv fans and understated the risk to Israeli fans if they traveled.
Sir Andy Cooke's report is expected to detail multiple errors in the force's intelligence gathering and handling.
Future of the Chief Constable
The authority to dismiss Mr. Guildford rests with West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, who has indicated he will formally review evidence related to the decision-making process for the ban.