Keir Starmer is set to abandon the proposal that would have exempted security agencies like MI5 from the Hillsborough law. The Prime Minister is expected to broaden the scope of the “duty of candour” under the legislation to include MI5, MI6, and GCHQ, ensuring that these agencies are accountable. This duty mandates that public authorities must be truthful and cooperate with investigations to prevent any attempts at concealing information.
The Hillsborough Law, which was withdrawn from the Commons in January due to a contentious amendment concerning its application to security services, faced opposition over a government amendment that aimed to bring MI5 and MI6 operatives under the legislation, with approval required from their service heads. This move was met with criticism from various quarters, including MPs, activists, and families affected by incidents like the Manchester Arena bombing, who insisted on the full inclusion of MI5 in the law.
In a recent development reported by The Times, the power of security chiefs to block individual operatives from providing evidence will be eliminated. Instead, they will have to seek court approval for partial or complete exemption from disclosing sensitive information. Keir Starmer has reaffirmed his commitment to passing the law, emphasizing the importance of public officials being truthful and transparent in their actions.
The upcoming Wednesday marks the 37th anniversary of the tragedy at a FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest at Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield. The Hillsborough Law initiative has garnered support from victims of other injustices, such as the Grenfell Tower fire and the infected blood scandal.
The progress in implementing the law follows a plea from Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall, who urged Keir Starmer to fulfill his promise promptly to prevent future cover-ups. Aspinall, who lost her son in the Hillsborough disaster, expressed frustration over delays and urged swift action from the authorities.
The legislation, officially known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, will establish a legal obligation for all public officials, including law enforcement personnel, to be candid, with penalties for dishonesty or withholding information. It will introduce a new offense for misleading the public, with severe consequences for serious breaches. The government has emphasized the collaborative effort with affected families to ensure the Bill’s effectiveness in promoting honesty and transparency in public inquiries and investigations.