Broudie Jackson Canters’ recent presence at the Labour Party Conference was a resounding success, marked by fantastic and positive engagement for the Hillsborough Law Now campaign. Elkan Abrahamson, Director and Head of Major Inquests and Inquires, attended the conference with both Clare Fletcher, Internal Head of the Covid Inquiry, and Natasha Hanmer, Covid Team Leader.
Our team proudly highlighted the core principles of Hillsborough Law Now, spoke with MPs, and photographed them holding a Hillsborough Law Now sign to pledge their ongoing support for the campaign. We found it heartening to witness the well-informed and supportive stance of so many MPs, Councillors, and their aides towards the legislation.
The conference also saw a significant alignment of support from delegates and trade unions, along with esteemed journalist Emily Maitlis. The solidarity extended beyond our immediate circle as we connected with other dedicated campaigners and supporters, such as the Gambling With Lives Campaign and Liverpool Advocates for Windrush.
Last week following the conference, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed his support for the Hillsborough Law Now campaign, citing that the law will be included in the statue book by the disaster’s next anniversary. The widespread support for fully and properly passing the law was evident during our participation at the conference, and we were encouraged to see this sentiment echoed publicly in the Prime Minister's comments.
Speaking on our attendance at the Labour Party Conference, Clare Fletcher, Internal Head of the Covid Inquiry at Broudie Jackson Canter said:
Whilst attending the Labour Party Conference I was deeply moved by the overwhelming enthusiasm for the Hillsborough Law Now campaign.
“Engaging with MPs, delegates, and activists, I felt a profound sense of unity and determination.
"Witnessing influential figures, such as Deputy PM Angela Raynor, pledge their continued support only strengthened our resolve to ensure that a full and proper version of Hillsborough law now is introduced to the statue book.
“The solidarity from fellow campaigners has only fuelled our wider commitment to seeking truth, justice, and accountability."
"This conference has invigorated us to continue our advocacy and ensure that the voices we stand for are heard and acted upon.”
Whilst at the conference our team also attended a fringe session organized by INQUEST, focusing on the need for a National Oversight Mechanism. This would be a new, independent public body responsible for analysing and following up on recommendations arising from investigations into state related death. You can read more here.
Elkan Abrahamson participated in a panel event called ‘Wrestling Justice from the State’. The event aimed to gather experienced campaigners to share their insights on inquiries and advocate for a National Oversight Mechanism. The panel included Naomi Fulop (Covid Bereaved Families for Justice UK), Margaret Aspinall (Hillsborough Family Support Group), Paul Dadge (Hacked Off), Nicole Lawler (Truth About Zane), Natasha Elcock (Grenfell United), and Deborah Coles (Inquest).
For further details on the INQUEST No More Deaths campaign and the need for a National Oversight Mechanism, we encourage you to visit their website and explore the vital work they are doing, you can do so here.
We also attended a fringe event hosted by journalist Susie Boniface and LABRATS International who represent nuclear veterans, atomic veterans, scientists, and civilians from across the world who have been affected by nuclear testing.
The session was eye-opening, detailing a stunning 70-year cover-up of medical records for veterans forcefully involved in government nuclear weapon experiments. We stand in solidarity with LABRATS International and Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, in calling for a Statutory Public Inquiry to uncover 'The Bloody Truth.'
It was also fantastic for our team to attend the JUSTICE fringe event at the conference. JUSTICE’s purpose is to build a fairer UK justice system within everyone’s reach, we were delighted to participate and show our continued support for the organisation, which dates back over 60 years.
This conference has renewed our inspiration and determination to advocate for truth, justice, and accountability throughout all bodies of public interest. The Hillsborough Law Now campaign has shown unwavering resilience from families and supporters, underscoring the need for urgent reform. Their efforts have paved the way for significant change. Together, we can ensure the voices of the affected and silenced are heard and acted upon.