Earlier this week, the British government introduced the Hillsborough Law. If passed in full, it will bring about a major cultural shift, ending the cover-ups and institutional defensiveness that have pervaded across many disasters and scandals. It creates a Duty of Candour on officials to tell the truth, and imposes criminal sanctions if they fail to do so. It also provides legal funding at all Inquests where the State is a party. It will transform the face of British justice.
What does this mean for DES?
I have been involved in this campaign and was in Parliament during this historic moment. Whilst it carries the Hillsborough legacy, this Law is for future investigations and inquiries, for people like you, to ensure you are not lied to and prevented from seeking the truth via government cover ups. I am so proud of what we have achieved and will be watching the bill closely as it moves through the legislative process.
This is a huge step forward for justice. Just last week, the government admitted they failed the women prescribed DES. A law that includes duty of candour for non-criminal cases means public officials have to always act with honesty and integrity during inquests and investigations and that is a massive positive in our campaign for justice.
