**Hillsborough Law must be all or nothing, families say**
In recent discussions surrounding the Hillsborough Law, families affected by the tragic 1989 Hillsborough disaster have voiced strong opinions. They insist that any proposed legislation must be “all or nothing,” reflecting their profound fears that the bill might not be enacted in its entirety. Campaigners, led by the Inquest charity, advocate for a law dedicated solely to preventing cover-ups and ensuring truthfulness from public officials during inquiries.
The tragedy, which occurred on April 15, 1989, claimed the lives of ninety-seven Liverpool fans due to catastrophic crowd control failures at the FA Cup semi-final match between Liverpool FC and Nottingham Forest at Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield. In a move praised by affected families, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to introduce this law before the anniversary of the disaster.
The Hillsborough Law aims to create an obligation for public authorities and officials to be transparent and cooperate fully with investigations. Any failure to comply with this obligation would entail criminal consequences, hence placing greater accountability on those in positions of power. The Inquest charity has underscored that the legislation should be enacted “without dilution or caveat.” This sentiment comes in light of troubling news last month that a critical meeting with the Prime Minister was cancelled, raising concerns about the legislative process.
Moreover, the Inquest charity provides essential support and guidance to families experiencing state-related deaths and their investigations. Notably, other prominent campaign groups, such as Grenfell United and Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice (CBFFJ), have voiced their support for the advocacy of the Hillsborough Law. The proposed legal framework would establish a duty of candour, compelling public officials to disclose truthful information and encouraging active participation in official inquiries. With such robust sanctions in place, it aims to thwart any attempts at deception or obstruction during investigations.
Commons leader Lucy Powell acknowledged the families’ requests for a thorough and comprehensive law, indicating the government’s willingness to take “whatever time is necessary.” This commitment is pivotal for ensuring that the expectations of the Hillsborough families are met adequately.
There is a profound sense of urgency among the families and survivors. Margaret Aspinall, who tragically lost her eighteen-year-old son James in the disaster, emphasized her determination for the legislation to remain uncompromised. After hearing the emotional testimonies of other bereaved families advocating for justice, she is resolved to fight for a complete Hillsborough Law without any amendments or compromises.
As highlighted by Inquest director Deborah Coles, any delays in introducing the bill would be viewed as disappointing; however, the critical aspect remains that the new legislation must fully fulfill the families’ aspirations. Ninety-seven fans were unlawfully killed due to gross police errors, as classified by an inquest jury back in 2016. The families and survivors have been on a relentless quest for justice, looking to ensure that similar tragedies do not repeat.
The societal implications of establishing the Hillsborough Law extend well beyond this single tragedy. Grenfell United’s Natasha Elcock brought attention to systemic failures in the accountability of public and private entities, particularly after the Grenfell Tower fire, where 72 lives were lost. She articulated that the existing systems often protect reputations rather than the truth, emphasizing the need for a legal obligation that would enforce accountability.
In conclusion, this movement for a stringent Hillsborough Law is fueled by a history of grief and the relentless pursuit of justice. As Parliament proceeds with the necessary legislative discussions, it is imperative that the feedback and experiences of the families are not only acknowledged but also reflected in the final law. Lucy Powell’s recent remarks affirm the necessity of careful consideration to ensure that the legislation embodies the needs and expectations of the families of Hillsborough victims, a task that is both solemn and paramount.