Labour ministers have reversed their decision regarding the proposed Hillsborough Law, specifically concerning the exemption of spies from its provisions. Following significant backlash from campaigners and dissenting voices within the party, the government led by Sir Keir Starmer has withdrawn an amendment that would have limited the law’s applicability to security service personnel.
The amendment suggested that the law would apply to spies only when their service chief authorized it. This proposal raised concerns among politicians and advocacy groups, who feared that it would allow security services to selectively decide whether to release crucial information during inquiries. During an interview with the BBC, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the decision to exclude any exemptions for the security services, stating, “I just want to be really clear, the security services won’t be exempt.”
The Hillsborough Law aims to ensure that public bodies are legally required to cooperate fully and transparently with inquiries. Nandy highlighted the importance of this principle in light of past events, specifically referencing the Manchester Arena bombing inquiry. She expressed concern that the inquiry had suffered from a lack of truthful information, which misled families and the public for an extended period.
Around 30 MPs, including Liverpool Labour MP Ian Byrne, supported efforts to guarantee that the law applies to all security service personnel without exception. This collective push indicates growing concern within the Labour Party regarding the implications of the proposed amendment, particularly in the context of transparency and accountability in public inquiries.
Adding to the urgency of the situation, it was reported that MI5 head Sir Ken McCallum engaged in discussions with some MPs to address their apprehensions about the potential rebellion within the party. This dialogue underscores the government’s recognition of the importance of maintaining trust with both the public and its own representatives.
The withdrawal of the amendment marks a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the Hillsborough Law. As the government seeks to navigate the complexities of public trust and national security, the implications of this decision will likely resonate within parliament and beyond. The Labour Party’s commitment to transparency and accountability is now under renewed scrutiny, as campaigners and MPs alike continue to advocate for comprehensive legal protections.
