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The Hillsborough Law Clears the House of Commons
The legislation introduces a:- statutory duty of candour and assistance for public authorities and officials, requiring them to:- act with transparency, and frankness during inquiries, inquests, and investigations. By replacing the existing common law offence of misconduct in public office with clearer statutory offences, the Bill aims to hold those who:- mislead the public or conceal wrongdoing to account, with potential custodial sentences for those who fall short of these standards. Bereaved families will benefit from a significant expansion of legal aid, providing non means tested support for inquests. Furthermore, the Bill introduces measures to ensure:- legal spending by public authorities at inquests is both necessary and proportionate, while also mandating that lawyers conduct themselves with sensitivity toward families within Coroners' Courts. Driven by the tireless work of the campaign group known online at:- https://HillsboroughLawNow.Org, the Bill has undergone extensive debate, including:- discussions on how it applies to various public services. Further details on the Government's approach can be found at:- Gov.UK, and the full progress of the legislation is available online at:- Parliament.UK. Following the proceedings in Parliament, Andy Burnham said:- "Today belongs to the Hillsborough families. They never gave up. Because of them, our country is 1 step closer to ensuring no family has to fight so long for truth and justice again." The Bill will now progress to the House of Lords for further scrutiny before it can receive Royal Assent.
Timeline of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill
What are your thoughts about this historic move? COMMENTS (1)
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Liverpool FC Fan
#1
Wed, 15 July 2026
11:55 am
I'm SHOCKED that it is still subject to more proceeding. This should just be made law now. How many more failures in our system does it take? Glad it is nearly crossed the line now...
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