UK Government Criticized for Failing to Commit to ‘Hillsborough Law’

Campaigners have expressed disappointment with the UK government’s decision not to support a ‘Hillsborough Law’. The government finally responded, six years after the publication of a report by former Bishop of Liverpool, James Jones, which detailed the experiences of the victims’ families of the 1989 disaster. In their delayed response, the government announced the signing of a ‘Hillsborough Charter’, promising to introduce a “duty of candour” for police during investigations and public inquiries. However, they did not commit to the legal changes that families of the 97 victims have been advocating for, including equal legal funding for bereaved families and public bodies during inquests.

Disappointment Over Government’s Response

Elkan Abrahamson, solicitor at Broudie Jackson Canter and director of Hillsborough Law Now, criticized the government’s delayed response and its timing, coinciding with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s appearance at the Covid inquiry. Abrahamson stated that the government’s response, misleadingly referred to as a ‘Hillsborough Law’, falls short of campaigners’ demands and lacks accountability for other public servants and private companies responsible for public health and safety. The Hillsborough Survivors’ Association also expressed disappointment, emphasizing the need for laws that would hold accountable those who spread false narratives about the fans during the disaster.

Apologies for Delayed Response

Home Secretary James Cleverly and Justice Minister Alex Chalk apologized for the delayed response to James Jones’ report, explaining that it was initially withheld to avoid prejudicing ongoing criminal trials involving South Yorkshire police officers. They acknowledged that the response took too long, causing further distress to the Hillsborough families and survivors.

(Photo: Liverpool FC – Handout/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)