MPs approve Hillsborough Law to prevent state cover-ups

MPs have approved the Hillsborough Law, long-delayed legislation designed to prevent cover-ups linked to failures of the state. The bill, formally known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, imposes a duty on public authorities and officials to tell the truth and co-operate with official investigations and inquiries.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the UK stands on the precipice of change and praised campaigners for their work on the legislation. He told MPs the law will protect individuals and families who will never have to go through what the Hillsborough families endured.

The law is named after the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, which claimed 97 lives. Police leaders spread false narratives about the disaster and withheld evidence of their own failings.

Andy Burnham said the bill ensures justice for ordinary people going forward. The legislation had been delayed by wrangling over how the duty of candour applies to intelligence services, but ministers broke the deadlock with amendments approved on Tuesday. It will now be sent to the House of Lords for further scrutiny before becoming law.

Gilbert