Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has publicly declared she has no confidence in the chief constable of West Midlands Police, Craig Guildford, following a controversial decision to ban fans of an Israeli football club from a match.
A 'Damning' Report and a Legal Limitation
The crisis centres on the force's actions which led to Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters being barred from attending their UEFA Europa Conference League match against Aston Villa. The game took place at Villa Park in Birmingham.
Ms Mahmood described an official report into the police's handling of the situation as "damning". However, she revealed a significant constraint: under current legislation, she does not possess the direct authority to fire Chief Constable Guildford herself.
Pledge for New Dismissal Powers
In a decisive move announced on Wednesday 14 January 2026, the Home Secretary stated she will seek to change the law. The proposed legal reform would grant her the necessary powers to dismiss chief constables in such circumstances.
"The findings are clear and unacceptable," a source close to the Home Secretary said. "She is determined to ensure accountability at the highest level and will bring forward legislation to rectify this gap in her powers."
Implications for Policing and Security
This unprecedented stance from the government's top law enforcement official signals a potential major shift in the balance of power between the Home Office and police leadership. The incident raises serious questions about operational decision-making, proportionality, and the policing of international football fixtures in the UK.
The announcement, made by Political Editor David Maddox, is developing, with further details on the report's contents and the legislative timeline expected shortly. The focus now turns to Westminster and the response from police representatives.
