GMB Union has welcomed the landmark Hillsborough Law being introduced to Parliament on 16 September.
If passed, the legislation will force public officials to tell the truth during investigations into major disasters.
It will also ensure bereaved families have automatic access to legal aid at inquests and inquiries and introduce criminal sanctions for those who deliberately mislead the public.
The Hillsborough Law results from decades of tireless campaigning by families, supporters and organisations - including GMB - who demanded justice after state failures from Hillsborough to Grenfell, the Post Office and Infected Blood scandals, the mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic, nuclear test veterans and many more.
Justice campaign conferences - run by GMB’s North West and Irish Region - have highlighted many of the scandals now addressed in the bill, while GMB activists and members have stood shoulder to shoulder with individuals and families seeking truth and accountability.
Paul Richards, GMB Branch Secretary, said:
“When I proposed a Hillsborough Law Now motion at GMB’s annual Congress, it was because I knew this was about far more than one disaster.
“Our region has supported Hillsborough families and groups, as well as voiced solidarity with others affected by injustice — we are all fighting the same battle for truth.
“We have campaigned for years alongside those who have been failed and then treated appallingly by the state.
“This bill is the best chance yet to end the cover ups and the smears and to make sure ordinary people get justice.
“The Government must deliver it in full - anything less would be a betrayal.”
