Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Guy Opperman Excerpts
Tuesday 16th October 2012

(12 years, 10 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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The Attorney-General was asked—
Guy Opperman Portrait Guy Opperman (Hexham) (Con)
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1. What steps he is taking following the publication of the report of the Hillsborough independent panel in September 2012.

Helen Jones Portrait Helen Jones (Warrington North) (Lab)
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3. What recent steps he has taken to ensure that the Hillsborough families receive justice.

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Dominic Grieve Portrait The Attorney-General (Mr Dominic Grieve)
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My consideration of the evidence in this matter is far from complete, but as I do not wish to cause the families affected by this disaster any greater anxiety, I have decided to take an exceptional step and announce that, on the basis of what I have already seen, I am persuaded that an application to the Court for fresh inquests must be made.

Ninety-six people died as a result of what occurred at Hillsborough that day, and 96 inquests were held. I believe that, as all those deaths arose from a common chain of events, it would be better for me to apply for all 96 cases to be considered again. I want to allow all the families affected the opportunity to make representations to me on that issue, and I will be in contact with them.

I wish to make it clear that, having announced my decision, I will still need further time to prepare the application so that the strongest case can be made to the Court. I have given that work priority and I will continue to do so. I have today laid a written ministerial statement in both Houses announcing my decision.

Guy Opperman Portrait Guy Opperman
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All in the House and all the families involved will welcome the Attorney-General’s decision today; they have lived with a completely wrong verdict for far too long. Will the Attorney-General assist the House by telling us about the speed of the process, so that urgent justice can prevail?

Dominic Grieve Portrait The Attorney-General
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I need to complete my consideration of the evidence and, as I have said, I need to provide the families with the opportunity to make representations, and to consider any representations that are made. I need to complete my consideration of the legal issues, and I then need to make the application to the Court. When the case is heard will be a matter for the Court’s listings. It is very difficult for me to give a precise timetable for my hon. Friend; I will move as quickly as I can.