PM to scrap spy chiefs’ Hillsborough Law veto

The prime minister is set to eliminate the proposal that would have allowed security services a general exemption from the Hillsborough Law. This legislation mandates that public institutions uphold a “duty of candour,” requiring them to be truthful and assist in disaster investigations. According to The Times, security officials will no longer be able to prevent spies from providing testimony, and any exemption for national security will now require a specific court application.

The law emerged following the 1989 FA Cup semi-final tragedy in Sheffield, where a crowd crush claimed the lives of 97 football fans during the match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. Ministers faced mounting pressure from Labour backbenchers, questioning whether intelligence agencies should be treated differently under the new framework. Meanwhile, Hillsborough families condemned the delayed rollout of the law, calling it an “insult” to their long-standing demands for transparency.

Hillsborough Law’s evolution

The bill was first introduced by Sir Keir Starmer while he was opposition leader in 2022. However, its advancement in Parliament hit a snag earlier this year due to disputes between the government and advocates over how the legal obligation of candour would apply to spies. Previously, intelligence service heads could override officers’ testimony if it risked national security. Under the revised plan, they must now seek judicial approval to grant partial or full exemptions.

“We are working with the families, who have campaigned for decades, to get this bill right. 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.”

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