The Hillsborough Law, officially the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, cleared the House of Commons on 14 July 2026, passing its Report Stage and Third Reading. The legislation, named after the 97 Liverpool fans unlawfully killed in the 1989 disaster, introduces a legally-binding duty of candour requiring public officials to act honestly and transparently during inquests and investigations. It also expands legal aid to ensure bereaved families have equal, publicly-funded representation at inquests.
Historic Commons Vote After Months of Delays
The Bill's passage through the Commons followed months of delays and disputes over how the duty of candour would apply, particularly to security and intelligence services. At one stage, the government faced accusations of seeking a "carve-out" for spies. However, an agreement was reached, allowing the Bill to proceed. The legislation now moves to the House of Lords in the autumn for further scrutiny before becoming law.
Victims Minister Catherine Atkinson opened the debate, stating: "It is essential there is accountability not denial and so those affected get the support they need not obstruction. We often refer to this Bill as Hillsborough Law and without the determination of the Hillsborough families we would not be debating this legislation today." She added that the fight had become a movement encompassing families from the Manchester Arena bombing, Grenfell Tower fire, Post Office scandal, and many others.
Emotional Tributes from Survivors and MPs
West Derby MP and Hillsborough survivor Ian Byrne fought back tears as he addressed the House: "To the families of the 97, those who are still with us and those we have lost along the way, you will never be forgotten. You carried the burden that should never have been yours, you fought with dignity when others did not. You taught this country you can overcome the most extraordinary abuse of power."
Concluding the debate, Atkinson said: "Nothing can bring back those who we have lost and we can never undo the suffering that so many families have endured but what we can do and must do is ensure that the truth is not buried by institutions whose first instinct is protecting themselves." She expressed determination to see the Bill deliver lasting cultural change.
Campaigners Celebrate a Decade of Struggle
Leading campaigners Charlotte Hennessy, Sue Roberts, Steve Kelly, and Margaret Aspinall issued a joint statement: "Following the conclusions of the fresh Hillsborough Inquests in 2016, we knew that we could not stand by and let professionals and organisations continue to abuse their positions of power. For 10 years we have campaigned for a change in the law to stop cover ups, and enable bereaved families access to legal aid at a time when they need it the most. It has been an honour and a privilege to fight for this monumental change of law alongside so many other strong, dedicated campaigners."
Political Journey from Pledge to Passage
Prime Minister Keir Starmer had pledged to introduce the Hillsborough Law while leader of the opposition, and repeated the promise after Labour's 2024 election victory. On the day of the vote, Starmer met with families in Downing Street before leading the final Commons stages. Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who first introduced the Bill as an MP, used his first Commons speech since returning to highlight its importance. The Bill's passage through the Lords is expected in autumn 2026.
