MPs have been cautioned by David Lammy not to dilute the Hillsborough Bill and to expedite its passage into law. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining the current robust form of the legislation to prevent injustices from being concealed. Scheduled for its first debate and vote in the Commons on Monday, this significant Bill aims to prevent future state cover-ups.
The legislation, known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill or the Hillsborough law, was introduced by the government in September. Upholding his commitment to the families of Hillsborough victims, Keir Starmer assured that the Bill, which holds public officials accountable for dishonesty, will not be weakened.
Emphasizing the need for swift action, Mr. Lammy stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of the Bill and promptly enacting it into law. The proposed legislation will establish a legal obligation of honesty for all public officials, including law enforcement, with penalties for falsehoods or information concealment. It aims to address the lack of transparency and truth experienced by victims, ending cover-ups and enhancing legal aid access.
The Hillsborough tragedy in 1989, where 97 Liverpool football fans lost their lives in a stadium crush, has been marked by prolonged battles against cover-ups. The long-awaited justice, including overturned inquest results and acknowledgments of unlawful killings, came years after the disaster, revealing systemic failures in emergency response coordination.
Advocates for a duty of candor for public officials include not only Hillsborough victims’ families but also those affected by other tragedies like the Grenfell Tower fire and the Post Office Horizon IT scandal. The legislation faces a series of parliamentary processes before potentially receiving Royal Assent by spring 2026, aiming to provide legal support to families facing state authorities without the need for financial struggles.
Mr. Lammy highlighted the importance of truth, accountability, and dignity for grieving families in cases such as Hillsborough, Grenfell, and other scandals. The upcoming parliamentary debate on the Hillsborough Law signifies a step towards fulfilling these promises and ensuring justice and transparency for all affected parties.