The ECU noted the decision to impose a ban was reportedly based on a perceived security risk arising out of hooliganism – but since both the Safety Advisory Group and the West Midlands Police did not publicise this thinking at the time, there was a limit to the extent to which it could be interrogated. However, the output which immediately followed the bulletin carried a contribution from the local MP and explored the background to the ban and the behaviour of Maccabi fans. 

The ECU accepted it would have been preferable to have more such voices in the bulletin, but the report did make clear who had made the decision and that it had been welcomed by the local MP. It also noted there had been “clashes, described as toxic” before and after Maccabi’s match in Amsterdam. Taken together with the material which immediately followed, this was sufficient to ensure that listeners understood the controversy attaching to the club and its followers.

Not Upheld