The Prime Minister shared a personal story of meeting Margaret Aspinall during their time as Director of Public Prosecutions. Aspinall’s unwavering courage, along with the determination of the Hillsborough families and survivors, is truly remarkable. Despite facing defamation and falsehoods concerning their loved ones, they persevered in seeking justice over many years.
These families, let down by institutions they once trusted, fought back against the establishment’s attempts to conceal the truth. The disparity in power was evident as the State utilized public funds to defend its interests, intimidating those seeking the truth. Margaret Aspinall’s account of families pooling their resources for basic legal representation, juxtaposed with the State’s abundant legal support, highlights the injustices faced.
The Prime Minister, emphasizing a lifelong commitment to supporting victims and their families, acknowledged the need for a fundamental shift in power dynamics within society. Reflecting on past prejudices towards groups like football fans in the 1980s, the PM drew parallels to the marginalization of various other communities, underscoring the need for systemic change.
The Hillsborough families’ relentless pursuit of justice serves as an inspiration, aiming to prevent future injustices and advocating for social equity. The proposed Hillsborough Law represents a significant step towards genuine social justice, aiming to create a fairer and more inclusive society where every individual is valued and respected by the State.
The legislation introduced to Parliament marks a pivotal moment in ensuring accountability within public institutions, ending a culture of secrecy and deception. New measures, including a Duty of Candour and penalties for misleading the public, aim to uphold integrity and transparency in governance. Additionally, an extensive expansion of legal aid will provide bereaved families with the necessary legal support during inquests, promoting fairness and equality.
Acknowledging the families and survivors’ consent to name the law after the Hillsborough tragedy, the Prime Minister expressed hope that this legislation will honor the memory of the victims and serve as a testament to national pride. While Hillsborough remains a poignant reminder of past injustices, the enactment of this law signifies a positive shift towards a more respectful and equitable society.
By instituting these reforms, the government aims to rebalance power dynamics in the UK, ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and fairness by the State.
