Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has given a firm assurance that the UK's security and intelligence agencies will not be exempt from the forthcoming Hillsborough Law, following a backlash over proposed government amendments.
Campaigners and Mayors Voice Concerns
The intervention comes after the mayors of Liverpool and Manchester called on ministers to withdraw a change to the legislation, formally known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill. Liverpool City Region mayor Steve Rotheram and Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham warned on Saturday that the amendment "risks undermining the spirit of the legislation" by creating a broad opt-out for spies.
Amendments tabled by the Government on Wednesday 14th January 2026 would bring security services within the scope of the new duty of candour, but subject to approval from the head of their service. Campaigners argue this could allow agency chiefs to decide unilaterally whether to disclose sensitive information, potentially hiding failures behind national security claims.
Nandy's Pledge on Transparency
Speaking on the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Ms Nandy sought to allay fears. "I just want to be really clear, the security services won't be exempt," she stated. She acknowledged the challenge was to apply the law "without fear or favour" while allowing the services to continue their vital work.
The Wigan MP emphasised the need to avoid past failures, specifically referencing the Manchester Arena inquiry, where security services withheld information, presenting an inaccurate picture to bereaved families and the public inquiry for a prolonged period.
Last-Minute Talks and Parliamentary Delay
MPs were due to debate the landmark bill this week, but the discussion was postponed until Monday 19th January 2026 to allow the Government to propose further changes addressing campaigners' worries. Ms Nandy confirmed the Government is in active talks with families and campaigners, expressing confidence a resolution would be found.
Labour Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, appearing on the same programme, said the legislation was "95% there" but stressed that without the trust of the families it would be difficult to proceed. She argued the duty of candour was vital and could be managed privately with a judge if necessary to protect national security.
The proposed law, named after the 1989 Hillsborough disaster which claimed 97 lives, aims to impose a legal duty on public officials and bodies to proactively cooperate with official investigations and inquiries.
