Investigations revealed that police authorities disseminated misleading accounts, attributing responsibility to Liverpool supporters and concealment of their own shortcomings.
The Public Office (Accountability) Bill faced delays due to debates over its application to intelligence services, but amendments brokered by ministers resolved the impasse, allowing it to pass the Commons on Tuesday.
Conservatives criticized the rush to finalize the bill, citing last-minute revisions. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer framed the legislation as a tribute to the 97 victims and a commitment to systemic justice.
Addressing MPs, Starmer emphasized: “This law safeguards families they’ll never know, ensuring future generations avoid similar tragedies.” He linked the bill to broader social equity, noting its relevance to working-class communities and marginalized groups.
Starmer highlighted historical neglect of working-class victims in cases like Grenfell Tower, Manchester Arena, and the infected blood scandal, arguing the bill rectifies this pattern.
Following the approval, Starmer remarked: “We stand at a pivotal moment for national transformation. Justice has taken a significant step forward.”
Chris Burnham, set to succeed Starmer as prime minister, praised the bill as a “rewiring of the state,” transferring accountability to citizens. He credited Starmer’s dedication to fairness, stating: “This legislation ensures ordinary people will finally receive justice.”