Victims of intrusive police surveillance have accused the government of seeking to curtail the spycops public inquiry, which is investigating widespread misconduct by undercover officers. The inquiry, led by retired judge Sir John Mitting, has been running for over a decade and was expected to continue for another two years.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has voiced concerns regarding the inquiry's length and its £144m cost. The inquiry was initially set up in 2015 with an expected completion time of three years. Ms Mahmood initiated a public consultation, which concludes on Sunday, to consider if the inquiry should proceed in a different format.
Those who were spied on claim the Home Office intends to significantly limit or scrap the later stages of the inquiry, potentially concealing the full extent of police wrongdoing. Over 2,000 individuals have reportedly objected, believing this would constitute a "cover-up." Kate Wilson, who was deceived into a relationship by an undercover officer, stated that curtailing the inquiry or reducing its powers would practically result in a cover-up.
The inquiry has so far investigated the Special Demonstration Squad (SDS) and is scheduled to examine the National Public Order Intelligence Unit. A Home Office spokesperson stated that while historic failings in undercover policing are shocking, the inquiry has not yet delivered justice despite significant taxpayer cost, and it is appropriate to consult those affected about its future.