UK Justice Secretary Pledges Strong Hillsborough Law Amid Parliamentary Debate

The Public Office (Accountability) Bill, commonly known as the Hillsborough Law, is set for its first parliamentary debate and aims to impose a legal duty of candour on public officials, ensuring they cooperate transparently in investigations of major disasters. Justice Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has affirmed that the bill will not be watered down, highlighting its importance in preventing cover-ups like those seen in the Hillsborough disaster and the Grenfell Tower fire. The legislation introduces criminal sanctions for officials who mislead the public and provides legal funding support to victims affected by state-related disasters. The bill honors the decades-long campaigning efforts of victims' families and survivors from multiple tragedies, emphasizing justice and accountability. Prime Minister Keir Starmer had pledged to bring the bill before Parliament by the 36th anniversary of Hillsborough, although it required additional redrafting to address campaigners' concerns. Lammy insists on passing the bill in its strong current form swiftly to ensure there is no place for injustice.