Hillsborough Law Campaigners Accuse Keir Starmer of Betrayal

Families of victims from the 1989 Hillsborough disaster and other state injustices have expressed their disappointment towards Prime Minister Keir Starmer for failing to reintroduce the Hillsborough Law in Parliament. This legislation aims to impose a legally binding "duty of candour" on public officials, ensuring transparency during investigations. The bill was initially promised by the Labour Party, but its progress has stalled, particularly due to concerns regarding its implications for national security.

Liverpool EchoThe Guardian

The Hillsborough Law has been a long-standing commitment from the Labour Party, included in their 2024 election manifesto. The legislation seeks to mandate that public authorities, including police and security services, provide truthful accounts during inquiries. However, the government withdrew the bill in January 2026, citing national security concerns, which has led to frustration among the families advocating for its passage.

Liverpool Echo

The campaign for the Hillsborough Law includes families affected by various tragedies, such as the Manchester Arena bombing and the Windrush scandal. Notable figures include Margaret Aspinall, who lost her son in the Hillsborough disaster, and Charlotte Hennessy, whose father was also a victim. Government officials, including Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, have been identified as key players in the ongoing delays, with families urging for more transparency and communication.

Liverpool Echo

Families have voiced their anger over the government's failure to act, describing the situation as an "insult." They argue that the ongoing delays undermine their trust in the government and express disappointment that the promised law has not progressed. Campaigners have emphasized their commitment to national security while insisting that the law must be enacted to prevent future injustices.

The Guardian

A government spokesperson acknowledged the families' concerns, stating that the Prime Minister prioritizes national security while also committing to advancing the bill. Officials indicated that they are working on amendments to ensure the duty of candour applies to security service personnel, aiming to reach an agreement with the families in the next parliamentary session.

The Guardian

Despite the government's assurances, families have reported a lack of clarity regarding the specific objections to the proposed amendments. The campaign group Hillsborough Law Now has called for existing national security safeguards to be applied to the bill, but the government has not publicly detailed its concerns. This lack of communication has contributed to the families' feelings of betrayal and frustration.

The Guardian

• “We feel incredibly disappointed; I would go as far as to say some of our members feel duped.” — Charlotte Hennessy, Hillsborough Campaigner

Liverpool Echo

• “The fact that we are now at this point of uncertainty and unrest is not only upsetting but also deeply insulting to the good people that put their faith in the hands of our Prime Minister, even though that went against their better judgement.” — Charlotte Hennessy, Hillsborough Campaigner

Liverpool Echo

• “This is a law that will change the way the country works top to bottom, we’ve got to get it right,” — Government Official

The Guardian

• “We hope that, going forward, you, the prime minister and your government will listen to the people Hillsborough law is meant to protect and not those it is meant to protect us from.” — Letter from Families to Keir Starmer

The Guardian

The ongoing struggle for the Hillsborough Law reflects broader issues of accountability and transparency in public service, with families continuing to advocate for justice and reform.

The Guardian