The government has withdrawn a proposed amendment to the Hillsborough law following criticism from campaigners and MPs, who argued it would allow security service chiefs to opt out of disclosing information. The amendment, introduced on Wednesday, sought to bring spies within the scope of the legislation but required approval from the head of their service.
The Public Office (Accountability) Bill aims to impose a legal duty on public officials and contractors to tell the truth after disasters. The government decided not to proceed with the amendment on Monday, opting instead to work with campaigners and bereaved families to refine the bill when it reaches the House of Lords.
Campaign group Hillsborough Law Now welcomed the withdrawal, stating it would engage further with the government to ensure the bill fully applies to security services without compromising national security. The legislation stems from the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, where 97 Liverpool fans died in a crush at Sheffield Wednesday's stadium, with subsequent cover-ups by authorities.
Labour MPs, including Ian Byrne and John McDonnell, had warned that the amendment would betray promises made to the families and could cause lasting damage to the party's reputation. The government spokesperson said the decision aims to make the bill as strong as possible while safeguarding national security.
