A mother who tragically lost her teenage daughters in the Hillsborough disaster is calling on Keir Starmer to communicate openly with the affected families and survivors. Jenni Hicks, whose daughters Victoria, 15, and Sarah, 19, perished in the 1989 tragedy, expressed frustration over the continued debate surrounding the Hillsborough Law, aimed at preventing cover-ups even after 37 years. The girls were among the 97 Liverpool fans who lost their lives on that fateful day at Sheffield Wednesday’s stadium.
Advocates for the Hillsborough Law, including families of the victims, have been pushing for its implementation to establish a “duty of candour” for public bodies to disclose the truth and collaborate in disaster investigations. Despite ongoing challenges, Jenni emphasized the urgency of resolving the issues hindering the enactment of the Hillsborough Law, citing concerns related to security services.
The proposed Public Office (Accountability) Bill, initially pledged by Sir Keir Starmer in 2022, has garnered support from various groups impacted by tragedies such as the Manchester Arena bombing, Covid, Grenfell fire, and other incidents. However, the bill’s progress has faced setbacks this year due to disagreements between campaigners and the government regarding the application of the legal duty of candour to intelligence agencies without jeopardizing national security.
Jenni stressed the importance of moving forward and finding resolution for the families affected by tragedies like Hillsborough, emphasizing the need for transparency and swift action. Recent reports suggest that the Prime Minister may reconsider granting security services immunity from the law, a development welcomed by Jenni as a positive step.
In commemoration of the Hillsborough disaster, various tributes and remembrances are being held, including a minute’s silence observed by the Liverpool team and a public event at Liverpool Town Hall to honor the victims. The significance of seeking justice and closure for the families impacted by the tragedy remains a focal point as efforts continue to address the lingering challenges surrounding the Hillsborough Law.