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Proceeding contribution from Catherine Atkinson (Labour) in the House of Commons on Tuesday, 14 July 2026. It occurred during Debate on bill on Public Office (Accountability) Bill.

Public Office (Accountability) Bill

The Bill allows a Minister to extend the duty and allows the flexibility to apply it to reviews where it would be most beneficial. I know that my hon. Friend has campaigned long on this point, and I would be happy to talk to her about how that takes place.

In conclusion, the Bill is about restoring trust between the public and the state, ensuring that when public bodies fail, they respond with openness rather than defensiveness and with support rather than obstruction. Above all, it is a testament to the families who have, despite every setback, courageously campaigned for change and their determination to ensure that no other families ever again suffer as they have. I know the whole House will join me in paying tribute to their extraordinary bravery. I commend the Government amendments to the House.

Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
789 c811 
Session
2026-27
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Disclosure of information Accountability Criminal investigation Company investigations Devolution Attorney General Coroners Digital technology Inquiries Intelligence services Legal aid scheme Exemptions Ethics Journalism Misconduct NHS National security Northern Ireland Police Public interest Public bodies Public records Negligence Public inquiries Scotland Water companies Parliamentary privilege Disinformation Corporate governance Ethics and Integrity Commission Independent Public Advocate
Legislation
Public Office (Accountability) Bill 2024-26 to 2026-27
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on hansard.parliament.uk