Families affected by the tragic Manchester Arena terror attack are urging for MI5’s full integration into the proposed “Hillsborough Law” to prevent cover-ups. They question the trustworthiness of MI5, following revelations that the agency did not provide accurate intelligence on suicide bomber Salman Abedi, who carried out the deadly attack on May 22, 2017.
The “Hillsborough Law,” inspired by the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, is progressing through Parliament. This law aims to ensure transparency and honesty from public officials during investigations, especially concerning major incidents.
Barrister Pete Weatherby KC, leading the Hillsborough Law Now (HLN) campaign, expressed concerns about the government’s handling of the legislation, particularly regarding its application to intelligence services. The government acknowledges the need to enhance the law while safeguarding national security.
The families of the victims, including Liam Curry, Chloe Rutherford, Megan Hurley, Eilidh MacLeod, and Kelly Brewster, are demanding accountability from MI5. They emphasize the necessity for a full duty of candor from MI5, MI6, and GCHQ to prevent future failures and ensure public safety.
Claire Booth, sister of a Manchester Arena attack victim, criticized MI5 for its lack of transparency post-attack, describing it as disrespectful to the victims. She highlighted the importance of holding security and intelligence agencies to the same standards as the rest of society.
The families are urging the government to fulfill its promise and enforce the new law rigorously to prevent future tragedies and ensure accountability across all sectors.