Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 9
9
Accepted
While we cannot conclude that the Safety Advisory Group’s decision was made because of political...
Conclusion
While we cannot conclude that the Safety Advisory Group’s decision was made because of political pressure, on the basis of the evidence we have seen we also cannot conclude with any confidence that the decision was not politically influenced. It is clear that on this occasion councillors, with a stated political aim, had a disproportionate opportunity to influence Safety Advisory Group decision-making on a deeply divisive political issue. While the presence of elected politicians on Safety Advisory Groups has potential benefits in terms of local representation, it also risks decision- making becoming politically motivated, undermining trust in the process. It is right given the role of the Safety Advisory Group in this matter that the Government is conducting a review of Safety Advisory Group governance. (Conclusion, Paragraph 34)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees that Safety Advisory Group membership should be grounded in expertise and states local authorities already have discretion over SAG composition, aligning with the UK Resilience Academy review of SAG guidance which will set out its position on political involvement.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
Safety Advisory Groups are long-established, multi-agency forums that provide expert advice to local authorities and event organisers on public safety matters. Their effectiveness relies on preserving the integrity of professional judgement and maintaining confidence that advice is provided free from political influence. There are very few instances of elected politicians sitting on Safety Advisory Groups. Safety Advisory Groups are not statutory bodies and do not have decision-making powers. Responsibility for licensing and enforcing safety at sports grounds remains with local authorities under the existing legislative framework. Nonetheless, we recognise the Committee’s concern that the involvement of elected politicians risks creating a perception of undue influence. The Government agrees that the membership of Safety Advisory Groups should continue to be grounded in operational, regulatory and technical expertise. Local authorities already have the discretion to determine Safety Advisory Group composition. This recommendation aligns with work already underway. The UK Resilience Academy review of Safety Advisory Group guidance is examining Safety Advisory Groups’ remit, governance and decision-making processes. The new Guidance will set out its position on political involvement given the expectation of impartiality of SAG members.