Keir Starmer’s administration is set to continue crafting the overdue Hillsborough legislation during the upcoming parliamentary session. This effort coincides with the government’s plans to prorogue Parliament prior to May’s State Opening, where a new legislative agenda will be outlined for the upcoming year.
In a recent update to Members of Parliament, Commons leader Sir Alan Campbell announced that the Hillsborough bill would undergo a carry-over motion on Monday to ensure its progression to the next session. The bill, officially known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, aims to establish a legal obligation for public officials to act with transparency, backed by potential criminal consequences. Following a dispute over its application to security services, including MI5, the bill was withdrawn from the Commons in January.
Although reports indicated progress in negotiations with Hillsborough families last month, any amendments from the government are yet to be made public. Liverpool West Derby MP Ian Byrne, who was present at Hillsborough during the tragic incident, commended the government’s commitment but stressed the need for swift action to avoid further delays.
Campaigner Margaret Aspinall, who lost her son in the Hillsborough tragedy, urged Prime Minister Starmer to fulfill his pledge of enacting a law to prevent future cover-ups without exemptions for intelligence and security services. Aspinall emphasized the importance of prompt action in an interview, calling for the promised legislation to be implemented promptly.
In response to these demands, Sir Alan acknowledged Byrne’s personal connection to Hillsborough and expressed satisfaction with the progress made through the carry-over motion. The pressure remains on the government to deliver on its commitment to address the Hillsborough legislation promptly and thoroughly to prevent future state cover-ups.