The Hillsborough Law is set to make history as a landmark piece of legislation aimed at restoring trust and accountability in public institutions. After months of stalemate, MPs are poised to give the Public Office (Accountability) Bill their approval next week, paving the way for its adoption by autumn 2026. The bill's core principle – that public officials must be truthful during inquiries and investigations – has been championed by those affected by the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, where systemic failures led to the deaths of 97 Liverpool fans.
Controversy had stalled the bill in January when it emerged that the government planned to grant intelligence agencies like MI5 an opt-out clause. However, a breakthrough has been reached, with a new amendment removing any exemption for these services from complying with the duty of candour. Campaigners claim this concession is a direct result of their tireless efforts and meetings with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Just as significant is the role played by bereaved families from the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, who raised concerns that MI5 had not provided an accurate picture of key intelligence. This intervention, alongside the continued campaigning by Hillsborough families and survivors, has driven a renewed commitment to truth and accountability within government.
The Hillsborough disaster exposed decades of systemic failures and police cover-ups, with fresh inquests in 2016 concluding that the fans were unlawfully killed due to police actions. The Hillsborough Law seeks to prevent such tragedies from occurring again by making public officials accountable for their actions.
Ian Byrne MP, a Hillsborough survivor who has spearheaded the parliamentary campaign, expressed his gratitude and relief at this development, calling it a "lasting legacy" for those affected. Sources close to the discussions suggest that Andy Burnham, likely next prime minister, played a key role in persuading ministers to allow the bill to proceed without exemptions.