MPs have overwhelmingly approved the Hillsborough Law, a landmark piece of legislation that will compel public authorities and officials to owe a legal duty of candour, in what Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, described as a 'rewiring of the state'. The bill, which passed its third reading in the House of Commons with a majority of 387 votes to 48, is named after the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, in which 97 Liverpool fans died due to a crush at Sheffield Wednesday's stadium. For decades, bereaved families fought for justice, uncovering a systematic cover-up by police and other public bodies.
Duty of Candour Enshrined in Law
The Hillsborough Law will impose a legal duty on public servants, including police officers, civil servants, and NHS staff, to act honestly and openly, and to disclose relevant information without delay. Failure to comply could result in disciplinary action or criminal prosecution. The legislation also establishes an independent Hillsborough Commissioner to oversee compliance and investigate allegations of cover-ups. Burnham, a former Labour MP and cabinet minister who supported the families' campaign, said the bill 'changes the culture of secrecy that has blighted our public institutions for too long'.
Background of the Hillsborough Disaster
The Hillsborough disaster occurred on 15 April 1989 during an FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. A fatal crush on the Leppings Lane terrace led to 97 deaths. Initial police accounts blamed Liverpool fans, but subsequent inquiries, including the Hillsborough Independent Panel in 2012, revealed that police and ambulance services had made serious errors and then sought to shift blame. The cover-up included altering witness statements and withholding evidence. The new law aims to prevent such official misconduct in the future.
Political Support and Opposition
The bill was introduced as a private member's bill by Labour MP Maria Eagle, who has long campaigned for justice for the Hillsborough families. It received cross-party support, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who previously served as director of public prosecutions and was involved in the Hillsborough case, speaking in favour. However, some Conservative MPs expressed concerns that the law could lead to a 'culture of fear' among public servants, discouraging candid internal discussions. The Home Office minister, Damian Hinds, confirmed the government's support but noted that amendments would be considered in the House of Lords to ensure the legislation does not inadvertently harm public service delivery.
Impact on Public Accountability
Andy Burnham, whose own father was a police officer, said the law represents a fundamental shift in the relationship between the state and citizens. 'For too long, public institutions have been able to hide their mistakes, and it has taken the incredible bravery of the Hillsborough families to expose that,' he told the BBC. 'This law is not just about Hillsborough; it is about every family that has been let down by a system that puts reputation above truth.' The legislation is expected to receive royal assent later this year, bringing the duty of candour into force across England and Wales.
