Hillsborough Law laid before Parliament – reaction from Sara Sutherland

September 17, 2025

The Public Office (Accountability) Bill 2025, better known as ‘Hillsborough Law’, was laid before Parliament yesterday.

The Bill brings the largest expansion in legal aid for a decade, providing non-means-tested legal help and representation for families at inquests. There will also be a new duty on public authorities to ensure any spend on legal advice and representation at inquests is necessary and proportionate.

The Public Office (Accountability) Bill 2025 places a legal duty of candour on public officials and authorities, enforced by criminal sanctions. It also provides for a duty to assist, again backed by criminal sanctions.

The Government has promised that the legislation will lead to meaningful cultural changes and a public service that truly acts in the public interest.

Commenting on the Bill, which has been described as ‘a significant step towards justice’ and ‘no more David v Goliath’, Sara Sutherland from Exchange Chambers said:

“Finally, we have recognition that in some of the hardest days for grieving families they deserve a voice, they need to be heard and they need answers.

“The Coroner’s Court is an inquisitorial process that should have a level playing field and this will be achieved with the right funding for the right representation.  My heartfelt thanks to those who have fought so hard to achieve this necessary change.”