New ‘Hillsborough Law’ to tighten accountability of UK public officials
The UK has announced the introduction of the landmark Hillsborough Law aimed at holding public officials and authorities accountable for their actions.
Learning lessons from devastating disasters and scandals – including Hillsborough, Orgreave, Windrush, the infected blood scandal, and Grenfell – the Hillsborough Law aims to once and for all end the culture of cover-ups and hiding the truth, ensuring transparency, accountability, and support for bereaved families.
Formally known as The Public Office (Accountability) Bill, the legislation will introduce several new changes, including:
- A new professional and legal Duty of Candour – meaning public officials must act with honesty and integrity at all times – with criminal sanctions for egregious breaches.
- The largest expansion of legal aid in a decade for bereaved families – providing non-means tested help and support for inquests.
- A new offence for misleading the public – our legislation will lead to meaningful cultural changes and a public service that truly acts in the public interest. But for those who don’t, there will be criminal sanctions for the most serious breaches, including for misleading the public in a way which is seriously improper.
“I know nothing can ever undo the years of injustice those families have endured. But I hope it can add to the already profound legacy they have created in memory of the 97,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“Hillsborough will always remain in our national consciousness for its tragedy and disgraceful injustice. But today it can also be remembered for the way it changed our country for the better. Because with this law, we are changing the balance of power in Britain and ensuring that the State can never hide from the people it is supposed to serve.
“Make no mistake – this a law for the 97, but it is also a law for the sub-postmasters who suffered because of the Horizon scandal, the victims of infected blood, and those who died in the terrible Grenfell Tower fire. This is change only this Government can deliver.”
