Arne Slot Comments on Hillsborough Law Ahead of Anniversary
Liverpool manager Arne Slot, speaking ahead of the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster that claimed the lives of 97 Liverpool fans, expressed his surprise that the Hillsborough Law has yet to be enacted.
In the matchday programme for Liverpool's fixture against Paris Saint-Germain, Slot paid tribute to the victims, survivors, and families affected by the tragedy.
"Since becoming head coach, I have been able to hear some of their stories and the passage of time does not make them any less moving," he said.
"I have also been told about the campaign for a Hillsborough Law and having listened to the reasons and knowing the story behind them, it surprises me that this is still to be introduced.
"This is not an opinion based on my association with Liverpool FC either.
"It is the view of someone who believes bereaved families should not have to fight and campaign for the truth about how their loved ones lost their lives, it should be provided as a matter of course."
Wednesday marks 37 years since the disaster, which has driven a campaign for legislation mandating public officials to be truthful during inquiries and investigations.
Background on the Hillsborough Law and Legislative Progress
The Hillsborough Law, formally known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, was included in the Labour Party's 2024 manifesto. However, since its introduction in September, the legislation has stalled.
Last year, controversy arose when the government proposed amendments that would include intelligence officers within the scope of the law, but only with approval from the heads of their services. Campaigners warned this could allow evasion of the new "duty of candour." Following these concerns, the amendments were withdrawn. Reports now indicate intelligence chiefs will need to apply to the courts for any exemption from disclosures under the law.
Political Commitment to the Legislation
On Monday, Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed his commitment to delivering the Hillsborough Law.
"Obviously we're working with the families and others on the final balance that we need to get right in the proposed legislation," the Prime Minister said.
"But the duty of candour, the duty, basically, that public officials need to come forward and tell the truth – that's a really important principle that drives me.
"So, we'll keep working on this, it's important to get it right… I've made a promise and I intend to act on that promise."
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