Keir Starmer is poised to abandon the initial proposal that would exempt security agencies like MI5 from the Hillsborough law. The Prime Minister is set to expand the scope of the new “duty of candour” established by the legislation to encompass MI5, MI6, and GCHQ, ensuring their inclusion. This duty mandates that public institutions must be truthful and cooperate with investigations to prevent government cover-ups.
The “Hillsborough Law” was withdrawn from consideration in January following a contentious debate over an amendment related to its application to security services. An amendment put forth by the government aimed to bring MI5 and MI6 operatives under the law’s jurisdiction but with approval from their respective agency heads. Security leaders sought to prevent spies from providing testimony in public inquiries citing national security concerns.
However, this proposal faced significant opposition from Members of Parliament, activists, and families affected by tragedies like the Manchester Arena bombing. Victims of the attack urged for full inclusion of MI5 in the new law, highlighting failures in preventing the 2017 bombing and the subsequent lack of transparency. Under new revisions, as reported by The Times, security heads would no longer have the authority to block individual spies from testifying. Instead, they would need to seek court approval for any exemptions regarding sensitive information disclosure.
Keir Starmer has committed to shepherding the legislation through Parliament, emphasizing the importance of honesty among public officials. When asked about fulfilling this pledge, the Prime Minister affirmed his dedication to delivering on it, acknowledging the ongoing pain and injustice endured by affected families.
The 37th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster, which occurred during an FA Cup semi-final match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest at Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield, falls on Wednesday. The campaign for the Hillsborough Law has garnered support from individuals impacted by other injustices such as the Grenfell Tower fire and the contaminated blood scandal.
The recent progress in the Hillsborough Law initiative follows a passionate plea from campaigner Margaret Aspinall, who urged Keir Starmer to uphold his commitment and swiftly enact the legislation to prevent future cover-ups. Aspinall, who lost her son in the tragedy, expressed frustration over delays in implementing the law and urged immediate action.
The Public Office (Accountability) Bill, commonly known as the Hillsborough Law, will establish a legal obligation of candour for all public officials, including law enforcement personnel, with penalties for dishonesty or withholding information. Additionally, a new offense for deceiving the public will be introduced, with severe repercussions for egregious violations.
A government spokesperson emphasized collaboration with long-standing campaigner families to refine the Bill, ensuring the protection of national security while fundamentally altering the conduct of public authorities and officials during inquiries and investigations. The aim is to promote honesty and transparency, ensuring that the government always acts in the best interests of its citizens.