PM to scrap spy chiefs’ Hillsborough Law veto

PM to scrap spy chiefs’ Hillsborough Law veto

Plans allowing security services a universal exemption from a key law aimed at preventing cover-ups in public affairs are set to be abandoned by the prime minister. The legislation, known as the Hillsborough Law, mandates that public bodies uphold a “duty of candour” during disaster investigations, ensuring transparency and cooperation with inquiries.

Initially reported by The Times, the new approach requires intelligence leaders to seek judicial approval rather than unilaterally block disclosures that might threaten national security. This shift means spies will no longer have the authority to withhold evidence without a court ruling, a significant change from earlier proposals.

“We are working with the families, who have campaigned for decades, to get this bill right,” said a government spokesperson. “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.”

Following the 1989 FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest in Sheffield, 97 football fans lost their lives in a terrace crush. Families of the victims have expressed frustration over the delayed implementation of the law, calling it an “insult” to their long-standing advocacy. Labour backbenchers also voiced concerns about whether security services should be granted special treatment under the new framework.

The Hillsborough Law was first introduced by Sir Keir Starmer during his time as opposition leader in 2022. However, its progress through Parliament slowed earlier this year due to disputes between the government and campaigners over how the “duty of candour” should apply to spies. Initially, intelligence chiefs would have had the power to veto evidence submissions that risked national security. This has now been revised to a system requiring specific court applications for exemptions.

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