We have to get the game cleaned up from this hooliganism at home and then perhaps we shall be able to go overseas again Margaret Thatcher

The match went ahead despite the tragedy and Juventus won 1-0.

The ban, decided after the return from Mexico of FA chairman Bert Millichip and secretary Ted Croker, will affect Everton, Manchester United, Liverpool, Norwich City, Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton. They are all due to compete in major contests next season.

"It is now up to English football to put its house in order," said Mr Croker outside Number 10.

Mr Millichip acknowledged the ban was a pre-emptive move and that Uefa (the Union of European Football Associations) would have imposed it anyway.

"It was very important that the FA took positive action and immediately," he said, saying it was the most difficult decision he had ever had to take.

The Labour leader of the Opposition, Neil Kinnock, said the ban of English teams would only benefit those who caused the "murderous riot" in Belgium.

The Football League which was not consulted is also opposed to the decision.

The Belgian government has already banned all British clubs from its territory until further notice.

Liverpool, whose fans were blamed for much of the violence, had decided to pull out of next season's Uefa cup competition before the FA announcement.

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