Full Breakdown
Delays in Hillsborough Law Due to MI5 Accountability Concerns
1/14/2026, 3:04:50 AM
Overview of the Legislative Delay
The progression of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, commonly referred to as the Hillsborough Law, has been delayed following concerns regarding its applicability to the UK's intelligence services, specifically MI5, MI6, and GCHQ. Originally scheduled for further discussion in the House of Commons on January 14, 2024, the government has postponed the bill's remaining stages to allow for amendments that address these concerns.
Background and Context
The Hillsborough Law aims to establish a legal duty of candour for public officials, ensuring they provide truthful information during investigations and inquiries. This legislation is a response to the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, where 97 individuals lost their lives, and subsequent failures by authorities to disclose accurate information. The law has also garnered support from families affected by the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, where MI5 was criticized for not providing a complete account of intelligence related to the attack.
Key Concerns Raised
Campaigners and MPs have expressed apprehension that the current draft of the bill does not hold intelligence officers accountable to the same standards as other public officials. A government source indicated that the delay would allow for "tweaking" of the bill to ensure it adequately addresses these issues. Families of victims from both the Hillsborough disaster and the Manchester Arena bombing have voiced their dissatisfaction, arguing that MI5's lack of accountability must be rectified.
Official Statements & Responses
The Prime Minister's spokesperson emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring national security while also addressing the concerns raised by families and stakeholders. They stated, "This government will not bring forward legislation that would put the national security of the UK or lives at risk." Additionally, the spokesperson noted that amendments have been proposed to ensure the bill applies to individual employees of the intelligence agencies.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics, including campaigners from the Hillsborough Law Now (HLN), have accused the government of undermining the bill's intent by introducing clauses that could exempt intelligence officers from the duty of candour. Pete Weatherby KC, a director of HLN, expressed that he felt misled during negotiations, highlighting a lack of trust in the government's commitment to accountability.
Verbatim Quotes
- “MI5 failed our loved ones and failed us. It did so by failing to prevent the Arena bombing. But it then failed and hurt us further through its lack of candour after the attack,” — Families of Manchester Arena bombing victims
- “Every security and intelligence officer should be required the tell the truth, and the leaders of the organisations should also bear full responsibility,” — Families of victims in a letter to Sir Keir Starmer
What's Next
The Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with families of the victims to discuss ongoing amendments to the Hillsborough Law. The government is expected to consider further changes to the bill to ensure it meets the demands for accountability while balancing national security concerns.
