In a concerning development, the UK government has paused the progression of the Hillsborough Law, prompting Liverpool MPs to voice their fears over the “direction of travel” of the legislation. The proposed law, formally known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, was entirely withdrawn from Monday’s parliamentary agenda, raising worries that a government amendment could be exploited by intelligence agencies to bypass the proposed duty of candour.
Labour MP Paula Barker, representing Liverpool Wavertree, welcomed the decision to delay the bill’s proceedings but called on ministers to continue engaging with the Hillsborough families and campaigners. “While I am pleased that the government has paused proceedings on the Hillsborough Law, I am increasingly concerned at the direction of travel,” she said during a Commons statement.
The Hillsborough Law was intended to ensure public authorities, including the intelligence services, are held accountable for their actions. However, fears have emerged that a potential “carve-out” for the security and intelligence services could undermine the very purpose of the legislation, allowing the type of behaviour exposed by the Manchester Arena inquiry to happen again.
Ian Byrne, the Labour MP for Liverpool West Derby, also voiced his concerns, stating, “There’s a real, real concern now that this could be kicked into the long grass.” The minister, Alex Davies-Jones, acknowledged the families have “waited too long” for this legislation and assured the House that the government is “committed to doing this as soon as possible” but stressed the need to “get it right” without setting an arbitrary deadline.
Anneliese Midgley, the Labour MP for Knowsley, made it clear that any amendment failing to satisfy the Hillsborough families on the duty of candour for individuals in the security services would be a “red line” for her and many of her colleagues. The minister promised to continue working with the families, the intelligence services, and the Intelligence and Security Committee to find a way forward.
The pause in the Hillsborough Law’s progress has sparked renewed concerns among Liverpool MPs and the Hillsborough families, who have long fought for justice and accountability. As the government navigates the delicate balance between national security and transparency, the families’ unwavering commitment to ensuring “never again” will undoubtedly shape the future of this crucial legislation.
