UK Government Seeks Supreme Court Appeal on Sean Brown Inquiry Ruling

The British government, led by Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn, is seeking permission to appeal a court ruling requiring a public inquiry into the 1997 murder of GAA official Sean Brown. Earlier, the Court of Appeal in Belfast found the government's refusal to establish such an inquiry unlawful and in breach of human rights obligations, citing evidence that state agents may have been linked to the killing. Despite pleas from Brown's 87-year-old widow, Benn confirmed he is pursuing an appeal to the UK Supreme Court and has asked for more time to respond fully to the Court of Appeal's judgment. The case has reignited concerns about state collusion during the Troubles and the adequacy of government responses to legacy cases. Benn has stated his commitment to a thorough and independent investigation but insists the recent judgment requires a comprehensive review before proceeding. The outcome of the Supreme Court appeal could have significant implications for other legacy cases in Northern Ireland.