‘Hillsborough Law’ defeated in Parliament
A proposed ‘Hillsborough Law’ seeking to give bereaved families the same resources as the police to make their case at future inquests was yesterday rejected by Parliament.
Shadow Home Secretary, Andy Burnham MP, had tabled an amendment to the Government’s Policing and Crime Bill as part of a package of measures he hoped would “be a permanent tribute to the dignity and determination of the Hillsborough families”.
The Government indicated it agreed with the "spirit" of Mr Burnham's call for parity of funding, but said any decision should await a report being written by the former Bishop of Liverpool James Jones which it hopes will “ensure that the full perspective of those most affected by the Hillsborough disaster is not lost.”
The proposed amendment to last night’s bill was defeated by 264 votes to 155 – a Government majority of 109.
Mr Burnham said the result would be "deeply disappointing to all of the people who fought so hard for justice". The Police and Crime Bill now moves to The House of Lords for consideration there.