The police watchdog is now actively considering whether to launch a formal investigation into West Midlands Chief Constable Craig Guildford, following a scathing official report into his force's decision to ban Israeli football fans from a match.
Damning Report Sparks Political Fury
Craig Guildford remains in his post 24 hours after the publication of a devastating interim report by Sir Andy Cooke, His Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary. The report found the force used "exaggerated" intelligence to justify banning supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv from a Europa Conference League match at Aston Villa last year. Guildford subsequently defended the decision before MPs, with the report concluding the force made "misleading" statements.
The findings prompted Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to declare she had lost confidence in the chief constable. Despite cross-party calls for his resignation, including from senior cabinet ministers, Guildford has not stepped down.
IOPC Weighs 'Call-In' Powers for Misconduct Probe
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed it is carefully studying the inspectorate's report. A spokesperson stated the watchdog is assessing whether to use its powers of initiative to "call in" the matter for an independent conduct investigation, without waiting for a formal referral from the local police body.
One source indicated that Guildford's evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee, which he claims was unintentionally misleading, could form grounds for a misconduct inquiry. This would focus on a potential breach of the standards of honesty and integrity required of all officers.
"We are prepared to use that power if it would be appropriate to do so," an IOPC spokesperson said, adding they were seeking to understand why the local authorities had not yet made a referral themselves.
Legal and Political Hurdles to Removal
Under current law, only Simon Foster, the Labour Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for the West Midlands, can initiate the process to remove the chief constable. Foster has notably declined to express confidence in Guildford. Sources say the PCC is waiting for several events before deciding:
- A public scrutiny hearing scheduled for 27 January.
- A further report from Sir Andy Cooke.
- The conclusions of the Home Affairs Select Committee's own inquiry.
One complicating factor is the interim nature of Cooke's report, which may be subject to change. Guildford has consulted lawyers, meaning any attempt to force him out could be met with a judicial review.
Conservative PCC Lisa Townsend said: "A chief constable has admitted to misleading MPs. At that point I believe his position became untenable." Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy called it "astonishing" he remains in post, while Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the situation as "absolutely outrageous."
The pressure from the highest levels of government continues to mount, leaving the future of one of the country's most senior police officers hanging in the balance.
