PM to scrap spy chiefs’ Hillsborough Law veto

PM to scrap spy chiefs’ Hillsborough Law veto

Government revises plan for security services’ exemption from accountability law

Prime Minister is set to remove the plan granting security services a general exemption from a law aimed at preventing cover-ups in public life. The Hillsborough Law mandates a “duty of candour” for public authorities to disclose information and collaborate with disaster investigations. As revealed by The Times, security chiefs will no longer hold the power to block spies from testifying, and any exemption for national security risks will require a court application.

In 1989, a terrace crush during the FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest in Sheffield claimed the lives of 97 football fans. The law has drawn criticism from Hillsborough families, who accused the government of delaying its implementation and calling it an “insult.” Labour backbenchers also pressed ministers to clarify whether security services should be treated separately from other public bodies under the legislation.

The initiative was first proposed by Sir Keir Starmer during his time as opposition leader in 2022. However, the bill faced delays earlier this year due to disputes over how the legal duty of candour would apply to intelligence officers. Originally, the chiefs of security services could veto evidence that might threaten national security. The revised proposal now requires specific court requests for such exemptions.

“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.” – Government spokesperson

Listeners can tune into BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be shared via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2230.