Full Breakdown
Delays in the Hillsborough Law: A Promise Unfulfilled
3/29/2026, 8:47:23 PM
Background on the Hillsborough Law Campaign
The Hillsborough Law, officially known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, aims to establish a "duty of candour" for public officials and contractors, compelling them to disclose the truth following disasters. This legislation is particularly significant for the families of the 97 Liverpool FC fans who lost their lives in the Hillsborough disaster on April 15, 1989. The campaign for this law has been ongoing for years, with Sir Keir Starmer, the current Prime Minister, pledging its enactment as part of his election manifesto.
Current Status of the Legislation
Despite the bill being laid in Parliament last September, it has faced significant delays, primarily due to a contentious government amendment concerning its applicability to intelligence services. This amendment, introduced in January, has raised concerns among campaigners who argue it could allow security service leaders to decide what information to disclose, undermining the law's intent. The bill is now stalled, with Parliament not scheduled to reconvene until April 13, just days before the 36th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.
Concerns from Campaigners
Charlotte Hennessy, a prominent campaigner and daughter of a Hillsborough victim, expressed frustration over the lack of progress, stating that another anniversary may pass without the law being enacted. In a letter to Prime Minister Starmer, she and other campaigners described the delays as an "insult" and highlighted the negative impact on families affected by state-related deaths. Hennessy criticized Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood for not engaging with the campaigners and questioned the Prime Minister's commitment to fulfilling his promise.
Legislative Amendments and Opposition
Liverpool West Derby MP Ian Byrne, a Hillsborough survivor and parliamentary lead for the campaign, has proposed an amendment to ensure that the duty of candour applies to intelligence services. He voiced disappointment over the government's lack of clarity regarding its objections to this amendment, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive law that does not enable state cover-ups. Byrne believes that the law is nearly complete but insists it must not be weakened to ensure passage.
Official Responses and Future Outlook
A government spokesperson acknowledged the significance of the Hillsborough disaster and the need for legislation that addresses the injustices faced by the victims' families. They emphasized the importance of getting the bill right while balancing national security concerns. The spokesperson assured that families and campaigners would remain central to the legislative process.
As the wait for the Hillsborough Law continues, campaigners are urging Prime Minister Starmer to take decisive action and uphold his commitment. Hennessy articulated the urgency of the situation, stating, "There’s either going to be a Hillsborough law in its entirety or there’s not going to be one at all." The future of the legislation remains uncertain as campaigners seek clarity and leadership from the government.
