Atkinson Defends Hillsborough Law, Says 1989 Secrets Act Still Shields National Security
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 14
Atkinson Defends Hillsborough Law, Says 1989 Secrets Act Still Shields National Security
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 14
Summary
Catherine Atkinson told MPs the Hillsborough Law would not force disclosures that endanger national security, saying it explicitly does not override existing laws including the Official Secrets Act 1989.
Intelligence staff and other select bodies would have specific protection where they cannot safely come forward, while other public servants could delay notification until it is safe if steps are taken without delay.
Atkinson also said ministers plan broad use of the new duty of candour, extending it beyond major disasters to police misconduct inquiries, serious healthcare incidents and key ombudsman investigations.
The clarification came during report stage debate on the bill, which had been delayed by arguments over whether intelligence services should be exempt from the candour requirement.
Can one law truly break the institutional 'wall of silence' that has protected public bodies for decades?
Will forcing spy agencies into open court compromise national security and create new dangers for the public?
With legal aid costs set to exceed £100m, can the UK truly afford this new price for public justice?
Hillsborough Law Nears Enactment: Landmark UK Reform Mandates Truthfulness from All Public Officials
Overview
The Hillsborough Law, inspired by the 1989 disaster where 97 Liverpool fans lost their lives, is set to transform public accountability in the UK. Decades of campaigning by bereaved families and survivors led to this landmark bill, which introduces a statutory duty of candour for all public servants, including intelligence services. This duty compels openness and honesty during investigations, with criminal sanctions for those who mislead or cover up. The law also expands legal aid for victims’ families, aiming to prevent future injustices and cover-ups. Its success depends on strong enforcement and a cultural shift towards transparency across public institutions.