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The government is anticipated to abandon earlier proposals that would have allowed security agencies to have broad exemptions from legislation aimed at preventing concealment in public affairs. This legislation, known as the Hillsborough Law, is designed to impose a “duty of candour” on public bodies, requiring them to be truthful and cooperative during investigations into disasters.
According to reports first published by The Times, intelligence officials will no longer have the automatic right to prevent their agents from providing testimony. If there are concerns related to national security, these agencies will be required to apply to a court for partial or full exemptions regarding the disclosure of information. This represents a significant change from the original draft of the bill.
The Hillsborough Law is connected to the tragic events of the 1989 FA Cup semi-final in Sheffield, where 97 Liverpool football supporters lost their lives due to a fatal crush. The introduction of this legislation was a promise made by Sir Keir Starmer during his tenure as leader of the opposition in 2022. However, progress on the bill was delayed earlier this year as discussions between the government and campaigners unresolved how the duty of candour should be applied specifically to intelligence services.
Previously, the heads of the intelligence agencies would have been able to veto evidence if it posed a potential national security risk. The revised approach mandates that any such exemption must be sought through the courts. A government spokesperson emphasized their commitment to working alongside the families affected by the Hillsborough disaster to ensure the legislation is effective. “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,” they stated
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