Public Office (Accountability) Bill
The King's Speech 2026 bill to introduce the Hillsborough Law, creating a statutory duty of candour and stronger accountability expectations for public servants and public authorities.
2026
Explanatory Notes: Bill 007 EN 2026-27 - pdf
Bill 007 2026-27 (reintroduced at Report Stage) - html
King's Speech 2026: background briefing notes
Why linked: King's Speech 2026 Background Briefing Notes — listed in the foundational document block and names the Public Office (Accountability) Bill (MoJ contact) under the King's Speech legislative programme.
Read the briefing notes on the announcements made in the 2026 King’s Speech.
King's Speech 2026: Cyber Security and Resilience Bill
Why linked: Legislative programme document detailing Public Office (Accountability) Bill in King's Speech context
The King's Speech 2026 cyber bill to strengthen the UK's defences against cyber threats, update resilience duties, and protect essential and digital services.
Archived: codex: kings-speech cross-bill cleanup · 14 May 2026
The King's Speech 2026
Why linked: King's Speech 2026 - official introduction of Hillsborough Law/Public Office (Accountability) Bill as government legislation
His Majesty’s most gracious speech to both Houses of Parliament.
King's Speech announces Public Office (Accountability) Bill
Why linked: The King's Speech 2026 and official briefing notes announce the Public Office (Accountability) Bill as part of the government's legislative programme.
The King's Speech 2026 bill to introduce the Hillsborough Law, creating a statutory duty of candour and stronger accountability expectations for public servants and public authorities.
King's Speech 2026: Justice
Why linked: Lords Library Note LLN-2026-0019 'King's Speech 2026: Justice' — pre-King's Speech briefing on which justice measures might be announced, directly relevant to the Bill's carry-over.
Type: Lords Library Note (LLN-2026-0019) This briefing explores what announcements the government could make in the King’s Speech on 13 May 2026 about justice.
King's Speech 2026: Justice
Why linked: King's Speech 2026: Justice - Lords Library Note providing parliamentary briefing on justice announcements including this Bill
Type: Lords Library Note (LLN-2026-0019) This briefing explores what announcements the government could make in the King’s Speech on 13 May 2026 about justice.
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the repercussions of the abolition of NHS England on the operation of Section 7A of the National Health Service Act 2006 with respect to public health commissioning for vaccinations.
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: National Health Service Act 2006
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the repercussions of the abolition of NHS England on the operation of Section 7A of the National Health Service Act 2006 with respect to public health commissioning for vaccinations.
Notices of Amendments as at 29 April 2026
To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, pursuant to the Answer of 16 March 2026 to Question 117942, which stakeholders she plans to engage with on the commencement of Section 106 of the Equality Act 2010; and what her planned timeline is for that en
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Equality Act 2010
To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, pursuant to the Answer of 16 March 2026 to Question 117942, which stakeholders she plans to engage with on the commencement of Section 106 of the Equality Act 2010; and what her …
Archived: cleanup: broad-statute expansion false positive · 12 May 2026
Public Office (Accountability) Bill 2024-26: Progress of the bill
Why linked: Commons Library briefing tracking progress of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, explicitly framed as the Hillsborough Law.
Type: Commons Briefing Paper (CBP-10424) The "Hillsborough Law" would create a duty of candour for public officials and introduce parity of representation for bereaved families at inquests.
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Carry-over)
Why linked: Motion for carry-over of Bill to next session - procedural document tracking Bill progress through Parliament
10.4 pm The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones): I beg to move, That if, at the conclusion of this Session of Parliament, proceedings on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill have not been completed, they shall be resumed …
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Carry-over)
10.4 pm The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones): I beg to move, That if, at the conclusion of this Session of Parliament, proceedings on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill have not been completed, they shall be resumed …
Notices of Amendments as at 21 April 2026
Gender Pay Gap Report 2025
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Equality Act 2010
This report presents GIAA’s gender pay gap and equality data, as required by the Equality Act 2010 (Specific Duties and Public Authorities) Regulations 2017.
Archived: cleanup: broad-statute expansion false positive · 12 May 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 14 April 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions he has had with the Professional Standards Authority regarding the extent to which Duty of Candour principles are embedded in the conduct of i) General Medical Council ii) H
Why linked: Written question on Professional Standards Authority engagement with Duty of Candour principles under the Bill.
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions he has had with the Professional Standards Authority regarding the extent to which Duty of Candour principles are embedded in the conduct of i) General Medical …
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether the Public Office (Accountability) Bill will explicitly apply to all universities.
Why linked: 31 March 2026 PQ asking whether the Bill will explicitly apply to all universities — directly probes the Schedule 2 definition of 'public authority'.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether the Public Office (Accountability) Bill will explicitly apply to all universities.
Legislative Consent Motion approved by Senedd Cymru - 26 March 2026
Why linked: Public Office (Accountability) Bill is the companion King's Speech 2026 measure on public-office trust grouped with the Removal of Peerages Bill in the speech's accountability strand.
Legislative Consent Motion approved by Senedd Cymru - 26 March 2026
To ask the Solicitor General, what recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill.
Why linked: 19 March 2026 PQ to the Solicitor General on recent Cabinet discussions on the Bill — direct on-thread.
To ask the Solicitor General, what recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill.
What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill.
Why linked: 19 March 2026 Commons oral question by Ian Byrne asking the Solicitor General about Cabinet discussions on the Bill — direct on-thread parliamentary engagement by the Hillsborough Law Now parliamentary lead.
What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill. oral_question | Commons | Member: Ian Byrne (Labour)
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, if he will publish the dates of all meetings with the campaign group Hillsborough Law Now, or Pete Weatherby KC, since Sunday 18 January 2026.
Why linked: Written question on MoJ meetings with Hillsborough Law Now / Pete Weatherby KC.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, if he will publish the dates of all meetings with the campaign group Hillsborough Law Now, or Pete Weatherby KC, since Sunday 18 January 2026.
Hillsborough Law Bill
Why linked: gov.uk landing page describing the Public Office (Accountability) Bill as the Hillsborough Law.
The government has introduced the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, known as the Hillsborough Law, into Parliament.
Public Sector Equality Duty report 2024/25
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Equality Act 2010
This report outlines the GIAA’s commitment to achieving the objectives set out under section 149 of the Equality Act 2010.
Archived: cleanup: broad-statute expansion false positive · 12 May 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department plans to take to help support defence organisations to meet their obligations under the Public Office (Accountability) Bill.
Why linked: 3 March 2026 PQ to the Secretary of State for Defence on departmental support for defence organisations to meet Bill obligations — directly addresses Bill implementation.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department plans to take to help support defence organisations to meet their obligations under the Public Office (Accountability) Bill.
Exclusion
Why linked: Parliamentary debate on exclusion of MPs/Lords from Bill scope - direct scrutiny of Bill's scope and parliamentary privilege intersection
Question for Short Debate 15:30:00 Asked by Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb: To ask His Majesty’s Government why Members of Parliament and members of the House of Lords are excluded from Clause 11, “Offence of misleading the public”, of the Public …
Offence of misleading the public: Public Office (Accountability) Bill — House of Lords Library
Clause 11 creates a new offence of misleading the public, designed to capture the most serious incidents such as the behaviour seen after Hillsborough.
Notices of Amendments as at 12 February 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 10 February 2026
What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill.
Why linked: 5 February 2026 Commons oral question by Ian Byrne on Cabinet discussions on the Bill — direct on-thread engagement.
What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill. oral_question | Commons | Member: Ian Byrne (Labour)
Notices of Amendments as at 4 February 2026
If he will make an assessment of the potential impact of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill on the intelligence services.
Why linked: 3 February 2026 Commons oral question by Harriet Cross specifically asking about the Bill's impact on intelligence services, directly bearing on clause 6 / s.23A(10) Inquiries Act 2005 carve-out.
If he will make an assessment of the potential impact of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill on the intelligence services. oral_question | Commons | Member: Harriet Cross (Conservative)
Notices of Amendments as at 29 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 27 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 20 January 2026
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
Why linked: Hansard record of 19 January 2026 Public Office (Accountability) Bill consideration in the Commons — directly on this thread.
Bill to be considered tomorrow.
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
Why linked: Parliamentary statement on next steps for Public Office (Accountability) Bill - direct ministerial statement on implementation
20:14:00 The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones): With your permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on the next steps for the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, also known as the Hillsborough law. As Members will …
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
20:14:00 The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones): With your permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on the next steps for the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, also known as the Hillsborough law. As Members will …
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
Bill to be considered tomorrow.
Consideration of Bill Amendments as at 19 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 16 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 15 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 14 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 13 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 12 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 9 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 8 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 7 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 6 January 2026
Notices of Amendments as at 5 January 2026
2025
Notices of Amendments as at 19 December 2025
Notices of Amendments as at 18 December 2025
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Fifth sitting)
Why linked: Committee stage (Fifth sitting) - substantive scrutiny of the Bill
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Peter Dowd, † Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) † Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool …
Public Bill Committee: Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Fifth sitting)
Why linked: Hansard transcript of the Fifth Public Bill Committee sitting on 4 December 2025 — including clause 11 (misleading the public) debate.
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Peter Dowd, † Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) † Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool …
Bill proceedings: Commons: All proceedings up to 4 December 2025 at Public Bill Committee Stage
Bill 341 2024-26 (as amended in Public Bill Committee)
Written evidence submitted by Steve Foote (POAB21)
Written evidence submitted by Browne Jacobson LLP (POAB20)
Written evidence submitted by Deanna Matthews (POAB19)
Supplementary written evidence submitted by WhistleblowersUK (POAB18)
Amendment Paper: Public Bill Committee Amendments as at 4 December 2025
Chair’s selection and grouping of amendments for debate in Committee - 4 December 2025
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Fifth sitting) — Hansard, 4 December 2025
Clause 11 creates a new offence of misleading the public, designed to capture the most serious incidents of misleading the public, such as the behaviour seen after Hillsborough.
Notices of Amendments as at 3 December 2025
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Fourth sitting)
Why linked: Committee stage (Fourth sitting) - substantive scrutiny of the Bill
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Peter Dowd, Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) † Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool …
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Third sitting)
Why linked: Committee stage (Third sitting) - substantive scrutiny of the Bill
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Peter Dowd, † Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) † Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool …
Public Bill Committee: Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Fourth sitting)
Why linked: Hansard transcript of the Fourth Public Bill Committee sitting on 2 December 2025.
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Peter Dowd, Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) † Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool …
Public Bill Committee: Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Third sitting)
Why linked: Hansard transcript of the Third Public Bill Committee sitting on 2 December 2025 — clause-by-clause consideration including intelligence-services scope.
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Peter Dowd, † Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) † Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool …
The European Convention on Human Rights and the Human Rights Act 1998
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Human Rights Act 1998
Type: Commons Briefing Paper (CBP-9958) The UK is a member of the European Convention on Human Rights and gives effect to it through the Human Rights Act 1998. This paper considers debate about reform of the Human Rights Act and …
Archived: cleanup: broad-statute expansion false positive · 12 May 2026
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Third sitting — clause-by-clause) — Hansard, 2 December 2025
Why linked: Foundational document — Public Bill Committee third sitting clause-by-clause debate on the Hillsborough Law Bill.
Committee stage clause-by-clause consideration, including amendments on intelligence services and the duty of candour scope.
Written evidence submitted by Steve Purse (POAB17)
Written evidence submitted by Former Members of the Hillsborough Family Support Group (POAB16)
Amendment Paper: Public Bill Committee Amendments as at 2 December 2025
Chair’s selection and grouping of amendments for debate in Committee - 2 December 2025
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Fourth sitting) — Hansard, 2 December 2025
Hansard record of the fourth Public Bill Committee sitting on 2 December 2025.
Notices of Amendments as at 1 December 2025
Notices of Amendments as at 28 November 2025
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Second sitting)
Why linked: Committee stage (Second sitting) - substantive scrutiny of the Bill
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Peter Dowd, Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool West …
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (First sitting)
Why linked: Committee stage (First sitting) - substantive scrutiny of the Bill
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Peter Dowd, † Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool West …
Public Bill Committee: Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Second sitting)
Why linked: Hansard transcript of the Second Public Bill Committee sitting on 27 November 2025 — core PBC evidence record for the Bill.
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Peter Dowd, Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool West …
Public Bill Committee: Public Office (Accountability) Bill (First sitting)
Why linked: Hansard transcript of the First Public Bill Committee sitting on 27 November 2025 — core PBC evidence record for the Bill.
The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Peter Dowd, † Sir Roger Gale † Asser, James (West Ham and Beckton) (Lab) Atkinson, Catherine (Derby North) (Lab) † Botterill, Jade (Ossett and Denby Dale) (Lab) † Byrne, Ian (Liverpool West …
Written evidence submitted by Hillsborough Law Now, INQUEST, and JUSTICE (POAB07)
Why linked: Joint Hillsborough Law Now / INQUEST / JUSTICE written evidence (POAB07) to the Public Bill Committee.
Written evidence submitted by Gareth O'Leary (POAB02)
Why linked: Filled the "Government response to the Public Bill Committee's written evidence and any formal committee report on the Bill." gap via web research
Committee stage
A Bill to Impose a duty on public authorities and public officials to act with candour, transparency and frankness; to make provision for the enforcement of that duty in their dealings with inquiries
Written evidence submitted by Hacked Off (POAB15)
Written evidence submitted by Spotlight on Corruption (POAB14)
Written evidence submitted by the Independent Public Advocate (POAB13)
Written evidence submitted by Andrew Rice (POAB12)
Written evidence submitted by Anthony Hogan (POAB11)
Written evidence submitted by David Ross (POAB10)
Written evidence submitted by the Chinook Justice Campaign (POAB09)
Written evidence submitted by Paul Calvert (POAB08)
Written evidence submitted by the Centre for People's Justice (POAB06)
Written evidence submitted by ExecProsec (Stop Lying in Politics Ltd) (POAB05)
Written evidence submitted by Community Planning Alliance (POAB04)
Written evidence submitted by Dr Minh Alexander (POAB03)
Written evidence submitted by Gareth O'Leary (POAB02)
Written evidence submitted by Nick Braley (POAB01)
Amendment Paper: Public Bill Committee Amendments as at 27 November 2025
Public Bill Committee — Committees — UK Parliament
Summary for Public Office (Accountability) Bill Public Bill Committee.
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (Second sitting — evidence session) — Hansard, 27 November 2025
Hansard record of the second Public Bill Committee sitting on 27 November 2025, covering intelligence services accountability and cultural change.
Public Office (Accountability) Bill (First sitting — evidence session) — Hansard, 27 November 2025
An evidence session was held with representatives of the Hillsborough families, the Law Commission, INQUEST and other bodies, including discussion of intelligence services accountability.
Notices of Amendments as at 25 November 2025
Notices of Amendments as at 24 November 2025
Hillsborough Law — House of Lords Library
Why linked: House of Lords Library briefing on the Hillsborough Law manifesto commitment and Bill.
The government has committed to introducing a 'Hillsborough Law', placing a legal duty of candour on public servants and providing legal aid for victims of state related deaths and disasters.
Notices of Amendments as at 17 November 2025
Hillsborough Law
Why linked: Lord Alton's QSD on progress of the Hillsborough Law (13 Nov 2025).
Question for Short Debate 16:03:00 Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool: To ask His Majesty’s Government what progress they have made in the development of the proposed ‘Hillsborough Law’. Lord Alton of Liverpool (CB): My Lords, the Prime Minister opened …
Hillsborough Law — Lords debate — Hansard, 13 November 2025
Why linked: Lords debate on Hillsborough Law (13 Nov 2025).
Parliament will want to be convinced that the Hillsborough law will tip the balance away from the behemoth against whom the small battalions are pitted.
call for evidence
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
Why linked: Prime Minister's Second Reading speech on the Bill - core parliamentary debate establishing policy intent
Second Reading 5.27 pm The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer): I beg to move, That the Bill be now read a Second time. Before I come to the Bill, I put on record in this House my own tribute to the …
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
Second Reading 5.27 pm The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer): I beg to move, That the Bill be now read a Second time. Before I come to the Bill, I put on record in this House my own tribute to the …
Second reading
A Bill to Impose a duty on public authorities and public officials to act with candour, transparency and frankness; to make provision for the enforcement of that duty in their dealings with inquiries
Second Reading — Hansard, 3 November 2025
The Prime Minister opened the Second Reading debate, calling Hillsborough 'an injustice' and 'a cover-up by the institutions that are supposed to protect and serve'.
Public Sector: Disclosure of Information
Why linked: Written question on legislating reporting duties on public sector organisations linked to duty of candour implementation.
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will take legislative steps to require public sector organisations to publish reports on (a) internal culture, (b) risk management and (c) the implementation of inquiry recommendations. Answer: The Public Office …
Human rights memorandum: Memorandum from the Ministry of Justice to the Joint Committee on Human Rights
Public Office (Accountability) Bill 2024-26
Why linked: Commons Library briefing CBP-10359 on the Bill (same content as event pk=56263, retained as candidate for cross-reference).
Type: Commons Briefing Paper (CBP-10359) The "Hillsborough Law" would create a duty of candour for public officials and introduce parity of representation for bereaved families at inquests.
Public Office (Accountability) Bill 2024-26 — Commons Library Briefing Paper PDF
Why linked: Full PDF of the Commons Library briefing — the most comprehensive single document for policy researchers covering the bill's provisions, background, and legislative history.
The bill is widely referred to as the 'Hillsborough Law'. It fulfils the Labour Party's manifesto promise to create a legal framework ensuring public officials are honest and transparent.
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial) Order 2025
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Human Rights Act 1998
Presented to Parliament pursuant to paragraph 3(2) of Schedule 2 to the Human Rights Act 1998
Archived: cleanup: broad-statute expansion false positive · 12 May 2026
Correspondence from Alex Davies-Jones MP, Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, dated 16 September 2025: Hillsborough Law - Commons Introduction
Why linked: Ministerial correspondence from Alex Davies-Jones MP introducing the Hillsborough Law in the Commons.
Direction: unknown
Equalities Impact Assessment for the Duty of Candour Measures
Why linked: Public Office (Accountability) Bill impact assessment on duty of candour - equalities impact assessment
Impact Assessment - “Duty of Candour” provisions
Why linked: Public Office (Accountability) Bill impact assessment on duty of candour provisions - substantive policy analysis
Impact Assessment - “Duty of Candour” provisions
Why linked: Impact Assessment for the duty of candour provisions of the Bill.
Equalities Impact Assessment for the Duty of Candour Measures
Why linked: Equalities Impact Assessment published with the Bill on the duty of candour measures.
Public Office (Accountability) Bill Factsheet: Duty of Candour Measures — Ministry of Justice
Why linked: Official government factsheet explaining the duty of candour provisions — key policy communication document.
The Government is clear that what happened following the Hillsborough disaster must never happen again. This Bill represents a powerful new package of measures to address these failings.
First reading
A Bill to Impose a duty on public authorities and public officials to act with candour, transparency and frankness; to make provision for the enforcement of that duty in their dealings with inquiries
Impact Assessment for the Parity of Arms measures
Impact Assessment for the Misconduct in Public Office measures
Equalities Impact Assessment for the Parity measures
Equalities Impact Assessment for the Misconduct in Public Office measures
European Convention on Human Rights Memorandum
Delegated Powers Memorandum: Memorandum from the Ministry of Justice and the Cabinet Office
Explanatory Notes: Bill 306 EN 2024-26
Bill 306 2024-26 (as introduced)
Public Office (Accountability) Bill publications — Parliamentary Bills — UK Parliament
Includes the Government human rights memorandum, written evidence from committee stage, delegated powers memorandum, and Legislative Consent Motion approved by Senedd Cymru on 26 March 2026.
Parliamentary Bills — UK Parliament
Current version of Public Office (Accountability) Bill with latest news, sponsors, and progress through Houses.
Hillsborough Law to ensure truth never concealed by state again
Why linked: MoJ press notice on the Bill's introduction as the Hillsborough Law (15 Sept 2025).
Landmark legislation a legacy for the 97 lost at Hillsborough and a tribute to the families that have fought for change.
Mental Health Services: Disclosure of Information
Why linked: Written question on statutory duty of candour for mental health service leaders, tied to the Bill's reach.
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether his Department plans to hold discussions with leaders of mental health services on meeting the requirements of the statutory duty of candour. Answer: The Government is supportive of …
What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to introduce a duty of candour.
Why linked: Anneliese Midgley MP oral question on Cabinet steps to introduce a duty of candour.
What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to introduce a duty of candour. oral_question | Commons | Member: Anneliese Midgley (Labour)
Duty of Candour for Public Authorities and Legal Representation for Bereaved Families — Westminster Hall debate — Hansard, 3 September 2025
Why linked: Westminster Hall debate (3 Sept 2025) specifically on duty of candour and legal representation in the Hillsborough Law context.
I am here to speak about the urgent need for a statutory duty of candour and the full implementation of the Hillsborough law, and to oppose the forces that want to fight against this change.
Full Government Response to the Infected Blood Inquiry's May 2024 Report (HTML)
Why linked: Filled the "Government response to public inquiry findings on institutional accountability failures" gap via web research
In response to: Full Government Response to the Infected Blood Inquiry's May 2024 Report
Debate on the duty of candour for public authorities and legal representation for bereaved families
Why linked: Commons Debate Pack CDP-2025-0171 supporting the Westminster Hall debate on the Hillsborough Law.
Type: Commons Debate Pack (CDP-2025-0171) MPs will debate the proposed "Hillsborough Law", which campaigners have argued should introduce a duty of candour for civil servants and improve legal support for bereaved families.
“Hillsborough Law”
Why linked: Lords Oral Question on Hillsborough Law (24 July 2025).
Question 11:37:00 Asked by Lord Storey: To ask His Majesty’s Government what progress they have made in introducing the proposed “Hillsborough Law”. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede) (Lab): My Lords, we remain committed …
"Hillsborough Law" — Lords Oral Question — Hansard, 24 July 2025
Why linked: Lords Oral Question on Hillsborough Law (24 July 2025).
My Lords, we remain committed to delivering a Hillsborough law, as set out in the manifesto. It is vital that we get this landmark legislation right.
Leading the NHS: proposals to regulate NHS managers
Why linked: DHSC consultation on regulating NHS managers including a professional duty of candour — adjacent operationalisation vehicle.
A consultation seeking your views on options for regulating NHS managers, and on the possibility of introducing a professional duty of candour for NHS managers.
If he will bring forward legislative proposals to introduce a legal duty of candour on public bodies.
Why linked: Ian Byrne MP oral question on bringing forward legislation for a legal duty of candour.
If he will bring forward legislative proposals to introduce a legal duty of candour on public bodies. oral_question | Commons | Member: Ian Byrne (Labour)
Government policy on the Hillsborough Law
Why linked: EDM/motion on Government policy on the Hillsborough Law and the 36th anniversary deadline.
That this House notes the Prime Minister’s promise to introduce the Hillsborough Law to Parliament before the 36th anniversary of the disaster on 15 April 2025; deeply regrets that this commitment was not met and that the Government has yet …
Public Authority (Accountability) — Ten Minute Rule Bill — Hansard, 2 July 2025
As the parliamentary lead for the Hillsborough Law Now campaign, I am proud to reintroduce this legislation, the Public Authority (Accountability) Bill.
The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Alteration of Coroner Areas) Order 2025
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Coroners and Justice Act 2009
The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Coroner Areas and Assistant Coroners) Transitional Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1625), which came into force on 25th July 2013, established that the former “coroners’ districts” - as constituted under the Coroners Act 1988 (c. 13) …
Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report: Government response (HTML)
Why linked: Filled the "Government response to public inquiry findings on institutional accountability failures" gap via web research
In response to: Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report: Government response
UK Goverment The actions of Civil Servants and Ministers uncovered within the report are extremely concerning and do not reflect the values we expect those who serve the public to uphold. The Governm
Why linked: Government consultation outcome on institutional accountability failures - potentially foundational policy document but metadata unclear
UK Goverment The actions of Civil Servants and Ministers uncovered within the report are extremely concerning and do not reflect the values we expect those who serve the public to uphold. The Government accepts that in light of the facts …
UK Goverment The actions of Civil Servants and Ministers uncovered within the report are extremely concerning and do not reflect the values we expect those who serve the public to uphold. The Governm
Why linked: Government consultation outcome on institutional accountability failures - potentially foundational policy document but metadata unclear
UK Goverment The actions of Civil Servants and Ministers uncovered within the report are extremely concerning and do not reflect the values we expect those who serve the public to uphold. The Government accepts that in light of the facts …
UK Goverment The actions of Civil Servants and Ministers uncovered within the report are extremely concerning and do not reflect the values we expect those who serve the public to uphold. The Governm
Why linked: Government consultation outcome on institutional accountability failures - potentially foundational policy document but metadata unclear
UK Goverment The actions of Civil Servants and Ministers uncovered within the report are extremely concerning and do not reflect the values we expect those who serve the public to uphold. The Government accepts that in light of the facts …
UK Government consultation (November 2024 - February 2025) sought views on whether a professional duty of candour should apply to NHS leaders. Response being prepared considering broader manager regul
Why linked: UK Government NHS professional duty of candour consultation referenced as part of broader Hillsborough Law landscape.
UK Government consultation (November 2024 - February 2025) sought views on whether a professional duty of candour should apply to NHS leaders. Response being prepared considering broader manager regulation proposals.
The Northern Ireland Executive committed to proposing an organisational duty of candour, considering consultation findings and broader Hillsborough Law developments.
Why linked: Northern Ireland Executive duty-of-candour consultation explicitly tracking Hillsborough Law developments.
The Northern Ireland Executive committed to proposing an organisational duty of candour, considering consultation findings and broader Hillsborough Law developments.
Scottish Government The organisational duty of candour provisions of the Health (Tobacco, Nicotine etc. and Care) (Scotland) Act 2016 and the Duty of Candour Procedure (Scotland) Regulations 2018 set
Why linked: Comparator: Scottish organisational duty of candour framework cited in Hillsborough Law debates.
Scottish Government The organisational duty of candour provisions of the Health (Tobacco, Nicotine etc. and Care) (Scotland) Act 2016 and the Duty of Candour Procedure (Scotland) Regulations 2018 set out the procedure that organisations providing health services, care services and …
Early Day Motion: Government policy on the Hillsborough Law — UK Parliament
Why linked: Early Day Motion on Government policy on the Hillsborough Law.
This House deeply regrets that the Government's commitment to introduce the Hillsborough Law before the 36th anniversary was not met, and expresses grave concern at reports of a weakened alternative bill.
Introduction of the Hillsborough Law and the 36th anniversary
Why linked: Parliamentary motion on introduction of the Hillsborough Law and the 36th anniversary — directly engages the Government's missed introduction-pledge.
That this House supports the urgent introduction of the Hillsborough Law to ensure justice, transparency and accountability in public inquiries and inquests; recognises the tireless campaigning of the Hillsborough families and survivors, who have fought for over three decades for …
“Hillsborough Law”
Why linked: Lords Oral Question on Hillsborough Law (22 April 2025) — companion record to event pk=56261.
Question 15:10:00 Asked by Baroness Chakrabarti: To ask His Majesty’s Government when they intend to introduce the ‘Hillsborough Law’ as set out in the Labour Party Manifesto 2024; and what steps they are taking to ensure any such legislation will …
'Hillsborough Law' — Lords Oral Questions — Hansard
Why linked: Lords oral questions on the Hillsborough Law in April 2025 — captures the government's pre-bill commitment and the political pressure around the missed April 2025 deadline.
Yes, the Government are very clear: we remain fully committed to bringing legislation forward at pace, which will include a legal duty of candour for public servants and criminal sanctions for those who refuse to comply.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, when her Department plans to introduce the proposed Hillsborough Law, including a legal duty of candour for public servants.
Why linked: Written question to MoJ on when the Hillsborough Law including duty of candour will be introduced.
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, when her Department plans to introduce the proposed Hillsborough Law, including a legal duty of candour for public servants.
To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to introduce legislation to provide for a duty of candour for public bodies.
Why linked: Lords written question on plans for legislation providing a duty of candour for public bodies.
To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to introduce legislation to provide for a duty of candour for public bodies.
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what his planned timetable is to establish a duty of candour for public servants.
Why linked: Written question to Cabinet Office on timetable to establish a duty of candour for public servants.
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what his planned timetable is to establish a duty of candour for public servants.
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will take steps to ensure that the new legal duty of candour established in response to Phase 2 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry will be applicable to past incidents.
Why linked: Written question on duty of candour from Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 - relevant to parallel accountability framework but relates to different inquiry
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will take steps to ensure that the new legal duty of candour established in response to Phase 2 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry will be applicable to past incidents.
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, pursuant to the Answer of 20 December 2024 to Question 20272 on Social Security Benefits, whether she plans to conduct a statutory public inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005 into (a) deaths and (b) ser
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Inquiries Act 2005
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, pursuant to the Answer of 20 December 2024 to Question 20272 on Social Security Benefits, whether she plans to conduct a statutory public inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005 into …
Public Bodies: Disclosure of Information
Why linked: PQ asking whether the new legal duty of candour established in response to Grenfell Phase 2 will be applicable to parties named in the inquiry — directly within scope on duty-of-candour applicability.
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will take steps to ensure that the new legal duty of candour established in response to Phase 2 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry will be applicable to past incidents. Answer: …
Government responds to Human Rights Committee 'Hillsborough Law' report — JCHR
Why linked: Government response to JCHR Hillsborough Law report restating duty of candour commitment.
In its response, the Government restated its commitment to implement a 'Hillsborough law' including a duty of candour on public servants and authorities.
2024
Findings of the call for evidence on the statutory duty of candour
Why linked: DHSC publication of findings from the duty-of-candour call for evidence — same workstream as candpk 333744.
DHSC publication of findings from the duty-of-candour call for evidence — same workstream as candpk 333744.
In response to: Findings of the call for evidence on the statutory duty of candour
Duty of candour review
Why linked: DHSC consultation on the statutory duty of candour for health and social care providers in England — direct adjacent regime.
Call for evidence seeking views on the statutory duty of candour for health and social care providers in England.
Findings of the call for evidence on the statutory duty of candour
Why linked: DHSC findings of the call for evidence on the statutory duty of candour for health and social care providers — directly adjacent to the Bill's organisational duty and the NHS-manager workstream.
A report analysing responses to the call for evidence on the statutory duty of candour for health and social care providers in England, launched in April 2024.
Labour Party Manifesto 2024 — Change
Why linked: The Labour Party Manifesto 2024 is the political-commitment source that the Bill is explicitly delivering and is referenced in the Lords ministerial answer of 22 April 2025.
Labour general-election manifesto, published 2024-06-13. Stored verbatim so the workspace builder can quote pledges directly.
Third Report - Human rights and the proposal for a “Hillsborough Law”
Why linked: JCHR Third Report — Human rights and the proposal for a Hillsborough Law (pre-bill scrutiny report).
JCHR Third Report — Human rights and the proposal for a Hillsborough Law (pre-bill scrutiny report).
Hillsborough Law — JCHR inquiry news page — Committees — UK Parliament
Why linked: JCHR inquiry news page on the Hillsborough Law inquiry (companion to events pk=56259-56260).
The JCHR will consider the ways in which human rights are engaged by current processes for conducting public inquiries and coronial inquests, with a focus on the lessons of the Hillsborough inquiry.
Decades-Long Fights for Justice Remain a Risk Without Broad Duty of Candour — JCHR Press Notice
Why linked: JCHR press notice summarising the committee's key findings and recommendations on the Hillsborough Law — useful for tracking the scrutiny narrative.
The Joint Committee on Human Rights has called on the Government to go further in improving how the state responds to major tragedies. The Committee calls for stronger measures to require openness from public bodies.
Hillsborough Law — JCHR Publications Page — Committees — UK Parliament
Why linked: Central JCHR publications hub for all Hillsborough Law scrutiny work including the report, government response, and correspondence.
First Special Report: Human rights and the proposal for a 'Hillsborough Law': Government Response to the Committee's Third Report of Session 2023-2024. Correspondence from the Committee to Ian Byrne MP regarding Hillsborough Law.
Secretary of State on the review of the statutory Duty of Candour in health and social care 15.04.24
Why linked: April 2024 record of the Secretary of State on the review of the statutory Duty of Candour in health and social care — adjacent in-scope material on the existing sectoral duty the Bill builds on.
Direction: unknown
Hillsborough Law — Written Evidence — JCHR — Committees — UK Parliament
Why linked: Full written evidence submissions to the JCHR Hillsborough Law inquiry — includes evidence from the legal teams representing Hillsborough families.
Written evidence submitted to the Joint Committee on Human Rights Hillsborough Law inquiry, including submissions from Broudie Jackson Canter, Garden Court North Chambers (two submissions).
Hillsborough Law: Duty of Candour and Equality of Arms — INQUEST Written Evidence to JCHR
Why linked: Written evidence from INQUEST to the JCHR inquiry — the key civil society organisation that co-developed the Hillsborough Law proposals.
Hillsborough Law would establish a duty of candour: a codified requirement on public servants, public authorities and corporations to act in the public interest and proactively and truthfully assist investigations.
Independent Panel Inquiry into the death of Zane Gbangbola
Why linked: Parliamentary motion linking Post Office Horizon scandal to the case for a Hillsborough Law and a duty of candour on public servants — directly engages the policy rationale for the Bill.
That this House notes that the Post Office Horizon scandal has reemphasised the need for a Hillsborough Law; acknowledges that more tragedies would benefit from a duty of candour on public servants and a parity of arms; supports the call …
2023
Government pledges never to repeat the injustices of Hillsborough
Why linked: Government pledge on Hillsborough Charter - policy commitment underpinning the Bill's rationale
The government has signed the Hillsborough Charter, pledging to learn the lessons and make sure no family suffers the same injustices.
Hillsborough disaster report: government response
Why linked: Filled the "Government response to Hillsborough families' decades of campaigning" gap via web research
Response to Bishop James Jones' independent report on the families' experiences following the Hillsborough disaster.
Letter from Alex Chalk KC MP, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, dated 7 December 2023, Government response to Bishop James's Report on the experience of the Hillsborough families
Why linked: Government response to Bishop James's Report on Hillsborough families - foundational policy document directly cited as legislative driver
Direction: to_committee
We recommend that the NPCC, College of Policing, Home Office and Association of Police and Crime Commissioners formally consider whether a professional “duty of candour” might drive greater transparency in policing. We consider that, while this would not be enough on its own to drive the culture change needed, it would help set the direction of travel towards a presumption of openness.
Why linked: Police duty of candour recommendation - relevant to broader public authority accountability framework within Bill scope
We recommend that the NPCC, College of Policing, Home Office and Association of Police and Crime Commissioners formally consider whether a professional “duty of candour” might drive greater transparency in policing. We consider that, while this would not be enough …
The Panel agreed with other independent inquiries, such as Bishop James Jones' report on the experiences of the Hillsborough families, about the need for a duty of candour for public services, includi
Why linked: Document referencing Hillsborough Independent Panel findings and duty of candour for public office - directly relevant to Bill scope
The Panel agreed with other independent inquiries, such as Bishop James Jones' report on the experiences of the Hillsborough families, about the need for a duty of candour for public services, including the police. The Government will address the points …
2022
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether her Department has made a recent assessment of the potential merits of recording the number of off-road vehicles seized by police under section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Police Reform Act 2002
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether her Department has made a recent assessment of the potential merits of recording the number of off-road vehicles seized by police under section 59 of the Police Reform Act …
2018
Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000: draft codes of practice
Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000
Consultation of revised codes of practice under Parts 2 and 3 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.
2017
Hillsborough Stadium Disaster: Lessons That Must Be Learnt — 'The Patronising Disposition of Unaccountable Power'
Why linked: Filled the "Hillsborough Independent Panel Report and recommendations" gap via web research
Report by the Right Reverend James Jones KBE (Bishop of Liverpool and former Chair of the Hillsborough Independent Panel), published 1 November 2017 (HC 511). It sets out 25 points of learning from the Hillsborough families' experiences — including a …
2012
The Report of the Hillsborough Independent Panel
Why linked: Filled the "Hillsborough Independent Panel Report and recommendations" gap via web research
The official 389-page report of the Hillsborough Independent Panel, published 12 September 2012 (HC 581), laid before Parliament. It disclosed the full documentary record of the 1989 disaster and its aftermath, and set out the Panel's findings and recommendations on …