Starmer makes vow after Hillsborough Law U-turn

Politics
19 Jan 2026 • 9:17 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • The government withdrew the proposed Hillsborough Law legislation from Monday's parliamentary agenda at the eleventh hour.
  • The decision came amid concerns that an amendment could provide a 'get-out clause' for intelligence agencies regarding the proposed duty of candour.
  • The Prime Minister stated the government is taking time to “get the balance right” between accountability and national security interests.
  • Ministers are now consulting with campaigners and bereaved families to agree on how to proceed with the Public Office (Accountability) Bill.
  • Campaigners and Labour figures had criticised the amendment, arguing it risked undermining the law's spirit by creating an opt-out for security services.

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