Mayors Urge Withdrawal of Controversial Hillsborough Law Amendment

The mayors of Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester, Steve Rotheram and Andy Burnham, have called for the withdrawal of a proposed amendment to the Hillsborough Law, arguing that it creates an overly broad opt-out for security services. This amendment is set to be debated in the House of Commons on January 19, 2025, and has raised concerns among campaigners and lawmakers regarding its potential to undermine accountability in public services.

Two mayors warn Hillsborough Law amendment creates 'too broad opt-out'

Rotheram and Burnham contend that the amendment allows heads of security services to decide what information can be disclosed to investigators following major incidents, which they believe risks obscuring the truth. In a joint statement, they emphasized the importance of establishing a culture of transparency in public services, stating, “An important part of strengthening the country’s defences is establishing the truth at the earliest opportunity when things go wrong.” They expressed gratitude for the government's efforts thus far but urged for a reconsideration of the amendment to ensure it aligns with the spirit of the legislation.

Two mayors warn Hillsborough Law amendment creates 'too broad opt-out'

The Hillsborough Law aims to ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions during disasters, stemming from the 1989 Hillsborough stadium disaster that resulted in the deaths of 97 Liverpool fans. The tragedy highlighted significant failures in crowd control by South Yorkshire police and led to a long-standing campaign for justice and accountability. Calls for the Hillsborough Law began in 2016, following a second inquest into the disaster.

The GuardianTwo mayors warn Hillsborough Law amendment creates 'too broad opt-out'Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester mayors call for Hillsborough Law amendment to be dropped

Elkan Abrahamson, a lawyer for the Hillsborough Law Now campaign, criticized the amendment, stating it would leave security service heads “unchallengeable” regarding information disclosure. He argued that the decision to disclose relevant information should rest with inquiry heads rather than security officials. Additionally, Liverpool West Derby MP Ian Byrne expressed his disappointment with the current form of the bill, stating, “I made a commitment to deliver the Hillsborough law without exemptions, without loopholes, and without carve-outs.”

The GuardianTwo mayors warn Hillsborough Law amendment creates 'too broad opt-out'Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester mayors call for Hillsborough Law amendment to be dropped

In response to the concerns, a government spokesperson reiterated their commitment to creating a “landmark piece of legislation” that mandates openness and honesty from officials when things go wrong. They acknowledged the importance of balancing transparency with national security and expressed willingness to work with campaigners to strengthen the bill.

Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester mayors call for Hillsborough Law amendment to be dropped

As the parliamentary debate approaches, the mayors have urged the government to withdraw the amendment and collaborate with the Hillsborough Law Now campaign to reach a consensus that honors the victims and their families. The outcome of this debate will be pivotal in shaping the future of accountability in public services in the UK.

Two mayors warn Hillsborough Law amendment creates 'too broad opt-out'