David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister, has cautioned MPs against weakening the Hillsborough Bill and emphasized the urgency of enacting it promptly. The legislation, aimed at preventing future state cover-ups, is set for its first debate and vote in the Commons on Monday. Lammy stressed the need for the Bill to maintain its current robust form to ensure that no room is left for injustice to hide.
The historic Bill, a result of the enduring fight by families of the 97 Liverpool football fans who lost their lives in the 1989 FA Cup semi-final tragedy, holds significant importance. Lammy, who also serves as Justice Secretary, acknowledged the resilience shown by the families of Hillsborough, Grenfell, infected blood victims, and other British tragedies. He highlighted the importance of passing the legislation swiftly to honor the memory of the lost loved ones.
The government introduced the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, known as the Hillsborough law, in September. Keir Starmer, at the time, assured the Hillsborough victims’ families that the legislation, which could hold public officials accountable for dishonesty with criminal consequences, would not be diluted.
Emphasizing the need for maintaining the integrity of the Bill, Lammy urged MPs to push for its swift enactment. The legislation aims to impose a legal duty of candor on all public officials, including police officers, with penalties for deception or withholding information. It also seeks to level the playing field by expanding access to legal aid.
Families affected by the Hillsborough tragedy have faced prolonged battles marred by cover-ups. The journey to justice was marked by significant delays, with vital inquest results quashed only in 2016, revealing a pattern of systemic failures.
The legislation, if passed, will address the longstanding grievances of victims who have been let down by a system that shields wrongdoers. Supporters of the duty of candor for public officials include survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire and those impacted by the Post Office Horizon IT scandal.
After the second reading in the Commons, the Bill will undergo various parliamentary stages before reaching the House of Lords. The government aims to secure Royal Assent for the legislation by spring 2026, ensuring that families no longer face financial hurdles in seeking justice. Lammy reiterated the need for truth, accountability, and dignity for grieving families, highlighting the importance of delivering on these promises through the Hillsborough Law.