PM to scrap spy chiefs’ Hillsborough Law veto
PM to Scrap Spy Chiefs’ Hillsborough Law Veto
The government is set to abandon a proposal that would have granted intelligence agencies broad immunity from the Hillsborough Law. This legislation aims to enforce a “duty of candour” on public institutions, mandating transparency during investigations into disasters. Under the revised plan, security officials will no longer hold the power to unilaterally block spies from providing evidence in such cases.
Legal Changes for National Security
According to
“security chiefs will not be able to block spies from giving evidence and, where deemed necessary to national security, will have to make a court application for disclosures to be partially or fully exempted.”
The Times reported. Previously, the intelligence services could veto officers’ testimony if it risked exposing sensitive information. Now, exemptions require formal judicial review, ensuring greater accountability.
The law was first pledged by Sir Keir Starmer during his tenure as opposition leader in 2022. However, its progress through Parliament faced delays due to disputes over how the “duty of candour” should apply to spies. Campaigners and families of the victims argued the original framework was too lenient, allowing potential cover-ups.
Hillsborough Families’ Criticism
Families of the 97 fans who died in the 1989 FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest in Sheffield have condemned the delayed passage of the law. They described it as an “insult” to their pursuit of truth, highlighting concerns about the security services’ role in the process. Meanwhile, Labour backbenchers pressed ministers to clarify whether spies should be treated differently from other public bodies under the new rules.
A government spokesperson emphasized collaboration with Hillsborough families, stating:
“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.”
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