Here’s a breakdown of the key information from the provided text, focusing on the “Hillsborough Law” (Public office (Accountability) Bill):
What the Bill Dose:
* The bill aims to stop cover-ups in public office.
* It would place a “duty of candour” on security service personnel, meaning they would be legally obligated to be truthful and transparent – the same as other public servants.
The Controversy & Government’s initial Proposal:
* The government initially proposed an amendment that would allow the head of a security service to approve whether or not personnel could disclose information.
* This was heavily criticized as campaigners feared it would allow security services to effectively decide what information to reveal, undermining the bill’s purpose.
Key Players & Reactions:
* Hillsborough Law Now Campaign Group: Welcomed the move but wants to ensure the bill fully applies to security services without compromising national security.
* Ian Byrne (Liverpool Labor MP): A long-time advocate for the law. initially had an amendment to force full request to security services, but the government withdrew its opposing amendment, likely to avoid defeat. He remains cautious and won’t vote for the bill until families are satisfied.
* Families Bereaved by Manchester Arena Attack: Also support full application of the law to security services, citing a public inquiry that found MI5 withheld key intelligence.
* Andy Burnham (Mayor of greater Manchester) & Steve Rotherham (Mayor of Liverpool City Region): Criticized the government’s proposed opt-out for security services.
* Sir Ken McCallum (Head of MI5): Personally involved in speaking to MPs, likely to persuade them to support the government’s position.
* Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Commitee: Did not support the government’s proposed amendment.
Current Status:
* The bill is due to complete its stages in the House of Commons on Monday.
* the government now intends to bring forward amendments in the House of Lords.
* The government withdrew its amendment, likely due to the threat of a rebellion from Labour MPs.
In essence, the core issue is whether security services should be held to the same standard of openness as other public bodies, or if they should have the power to control the disclosure of information. the families affected by both Hillsborough and the Manchester Arena bombing are pushing for full accountability.
