Keir Starmer’s administration will continue to progress the work on the delayed Hillsborough legislation during the upcoming parliamentary session. This development coincides with the impending prorogation of Parliament next week in preparation for May’s King Speech, which will outline the legislative agenda for the forthcoming year.
Commons leader Sir Alan Campbell informed MPs on Thursday that the Hillsborough law bill would undergo a carry-over motion on Monday, allowing the current version of the Bill, designed to prevent future state concealments, to carry forward to the next session instead of being abandoned. Labour MP Ian Byrne, who witnessed the tragic events at Hillsborough where 97 Liverpool football fans lost their lives, expressed appreciation for the commitment while urging the Government to expedite the process and eliminate delays.
Officially known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, the legislation proposes the establishment of a “duty of candour” requiring public officials to act honestly under penalty of criminal sanctions. The Bill was withdrawn from the Commons in January following a contentious debate over an amendment pertaining to its application to security services, including MI5.
Although reports indicated a breakthrough in negotiations with Hillsborough families last month, any government revisions to the legislation have yet to be made public. During a session at the Commons, Liverpool West Derby MP Mr. Byrne emphasized the need for urgency in delivering the Hillsborough law without exceptions for intelligence and security services, as pledged by the Government.
In response, Sir Alan acknowledged Mr. Byrne’s personal connection to the Hillsborough tragedy and expressed satisfaction that the carry-over motion was well-received. Additionally, Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall urged Mr. Starmer to fulfill his promise and enact a law to prevent future state cover-ups promptly, emphasizing the importance of honoring commitments made to the nation.
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