The government has been forced to delay the long-awaited Hillsborough law after crucial negotiations with the families of victims broke down. Talks between ministers and representatives from the Hillsborough and Manchester Arena tragedies collapsed last week, stalling the proposed legislation designed to prevent official cover-ups.
Security Services at Heart of the Dispute
Central to the impasse is how the proposed duty of candour would apply to serving officers within the UK's security and intelligence agencies. The public authority (accountability) bill would make it a criminal offence for public officials to lie or withhold information.
While the government agrees the law should cover agencies like MI5 and MI6, it wants to grant agency chiefs the final authority over when individual officers can give evidence. Bereaved families have rejected this provision outright, arguing it creates a dangerous loophole that could enable future cover-ups and undermines the entire purpose of the law.
Starmer's Pledge and the Path Forward
Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the delay at a press conference on Monday, stating his determination to find a solution. "I care hugely that we get this right, that we right the wrongs for very many families who have been let down," he said.
He emphasised the need to balance the principle of candour with national security, his "primary duty" as Prime Minister. A Labour source confirmed the bill will not return to the House of Commons for debate until a compromise acceptable to the families is reached.
Political Pressure and Next Steps
The government withdrew the bill from Commons business this week, a move that relieved approximately 20 Labour MPs. They had backed an amendment tabled by Liverpool West Derby MP Ian Byrne, which aligned with the families' demands.
High-profile figures including Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham have criticised the government's proposed amendments, stating they "risk undermining the spirit of the legislation". The campaign group Hillsborough Law Now welcomed the government's decision to pause but insists on a robust law.
Further negotiations will involve the families, their barrister Peter Weatherby, the intelligence agencies, the Home and Foreign Offices, and the Intelligence and Security Committee. Starmer is expected to be personally involved in the final stages of talks, with no deadline currently set for a resolution.
