The Home Office has signalled its displeasure after a Somali-born referee was denied entry to the United States. The man, a FIFA-listed official, was turned back at JFK airport on Friday. No official reason was given.
But sources tell me this is part of a broader immigration crackdown. The Foreign Office is worried. A spokesman said the bans are “divisive and counterproductive.
” They are not alone. WH whispers suggest the PM’s team is privately furious. They see this as a snub to the special relationship.
The referee had been due to officiate a friendly in New Jersey. Now he is stuck in London. The opposition smells blood.
Labour’s shadow home secretary is calling for an urgent statement. The real game is being played in the margins. Will the UK retaliate?
Don’t hold your breath. The PM has bigger fish to fry. But this is a gift for the backbench Brexit ultras.
They will use it to argue for a tougher line on immigration. Expect fireworks in the Commons next week.
