UK Government to Reform Spy Exemptions in Hillsborough Law

The UK government is expected to reform its plans for the Hillsborough Law, removing a proposed blanket exemption for security services. The law, which was first promised by Sir Keir Starmer in 2022, is designed to prevent cover-ups in public life by introducing a duty of candour for public authorities to tell the truth and co-operate with disaster inquiries.

The new law will require public authorities to be transparent and honest during inquiries and investigations. In cases where national security is at risk, security services will have to make a court application for disclosures to be partially or fully exempted. This move comes after relatives of the 97 victims of the 1989 Hillsborough football disaster and other campaigners reacted with surprise to the latest developments.

Background

The Hillsborough Law was promised by Sir Keir Starmer when he was leader of the opposition in 2022. The prime minister has reiterated his commitment to delivering on this promise, stating: "I did make that promise and I intend to deliver on that promise.

The prime minister also acknowledged the importance of working with the families of the victims, saying: "We're working with the families and others on the final balance that we need to get right in the proposed legislation.

The duty of candour is a key principle of the proposed law, with the prime minister emphasizing: "The duty of candour - the duty, basically, that public officials need to come forward and tell the truth - that's a really important principle that drives me.

Reaction

The director of the Hillsborough Law Now group, Pete Weatherby KC, expressed uncertainty about the progress of the legislation, stating: "We have had no update from government, and as far as we are aware none of the outstanding issues have been addressed.

A government spokesperson said: "We are working with the families, who have campaigned for decades, to get this bill right. The bill will fundamentally change how public authorities and officials behave during inquiries and investigations, ensuring honesty and transparency, so the state must always act for the people it serves.