In a decisive move marking a significant shift in the relationship between the state and its citizens, MPs have approved the long-awaited Hillsborough law, a victory heralded by key figures within the Labour Party. Andy Burnham, a prominent advocate for the Hillsborough families and now poised to take the role of Prime Minister, described the legislation as a “rewiring of the state,” aimed at ensuring accountability for public officials in the wake of tragedies. This moment of rare unity within Labour stands out as a crucial legacy of Keir Starmer’s government.
A Long Struggle for Accountability
For decades, families affected by the Hillsborough disaster and other public tragedies have faced not only the anguish of loss but also the painful process of seeking justice against a backdrop of institutional denial and obfuscation. Speaking at the House of Commons, Burnham reflected on the traumatic experiences that these families have endured. “We have had a situation in this country where people suffer the trauma of the initial bereavement, the incident that took their loved ones away, and then they are re-traumatised by the behaviour of the state,” he stated.
The Hillsborough law introduces a duty of candour for public officials, which means that those who provide misleading information during inquiries into tragedies will face prosecution. Burnham emphasised that while the law cannot erase the pain of these families, it reinstates a sense of decency at the heart of the British state, addressing a long-standing imbalance of power.
Unity in Labour: A Shared Commitment
The passage of the bill has been a personal crusade for Keir Starmer, who has pledged to fight for the Hillsborough families since his election as leader. His commitment to justice was reaffirmed during the Commons debate, where he stated, “Whatever happens next in my life, I’m never giving up on this. While I’ve got breath in my body, I’m going to campaign on all these issues for as long as is necessary.”
The collaborative efforts behind this legislation involved senior members of Burnham’s team, including Knowsley MP Anneliese Midgley and Conservative MP Jeremy Wright. This coalition of support underscores the significance of the bill and the shared understanding of the need for accountability.
Navigating Challenges and Compromises
Despite its triumphant passage, the Hillsborough law faced numerous obstacles, particularly concerning the role of intelligence agencies. Initial proposals had sought to grant security chiefs the power to determine whether evidence could be withheld on national security grounds, a move met with fierce resistance from the bereaved families.
After extensive negotiations, a compromise was reached, allowing inquiry chairs to assess applications from MI5 for withholding evidence while ensuring that essential information cannot be omitted. This shift not only addresses family concerns but also echoes lessons learned from previous inquiries, such as the Manchester Arena bombing.
Charlotte Hennessy, a Hillsborough campaigner, articulated the sentiment of many involved: “We have shown that true power belongs to ordinary people. We did not stay silent, we were not ground down, we were not afraid to speak truth to power.”
A Broader Impact on Legal Support
In tandem with the new duty of candour, the Hillsborough law will also see a substantial £185 million expansion in legal aid for bereaved families, representing the largest increase in a decade. This crucial support will empower families to navigate the often daunting inquest process. Justice Minister Sarah Sackman remarked, “Access to justice is the right that makes all others real,” highlighting the broader implications of this legal reform.
Why it Matters
The passing of the Hillsborough law marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in the UK. It signals a shift towards a culture where the voices of bereaved families are not only heard but respected within the corridors of power. This legislation not only addresses specific historical grievances but sets a precedent for future interactions between public institutions and the communities they serve. By fostering transparency and accountability, the law embodies a commitment to ensuring that the traumas of the past are not repeated, heralding a new era in public governance.
