Keir Starmer’s administration is set to continue addressing the delayed Hillsborough law during the upcoming parliamentary session. The government plans to prorogue Parliament next week before May’s King Speech, which will outline the legislative agenda for the year ahead.
Commons leader Sir Alan Campbell informed MPs that the Hillsborough law legislation would undergo a carry-over motion on Monday, ensuring that the Bill, aimed at preventing future state cover-ups, will be transferred to the next session instead of being abandoned. Labour MP Ian Byrne, who was present at Hillsborough during the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 97 Liverpool football fans, commended the commitment but urged the Government to expedite the process.
Officially known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, the proposed law introduces a “duty of candour” requiring public officials to act honestly or face criminal penalties. However, the Bill was withdrawn from the Commons in January following a dispute over an amendment concerning its application to security services, including MI5.
Although progress was reported in negotiations with Hillsborough families last month, any government amendments are yet to be disclosed. During a session in the Commons, Liverpool West Derby MP Mr. Byrne emphasized the need for urgency in delivering the Hillsborough law without exemptions for intelligence and security services, as originally pledged.
In response, Sir Alan acknowledged Mr. Byrne’s personal connection to the Hillsborough tragedy and welcomed his support for the carry-over motion. Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall recently urged Mr. Starmer to fulfill his commitment and enact a law to prevent future state cover-ups promptly. Aspinall, who lost her son James in the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, emphasized the importance of honoring the promise made by the Prime Minister.
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