You signed the petition because you believe politicians should not be allowed to deliberately deceive the public. That principle matters now more than ever.

We want to share an important update on where things stand — and what is needed next.

Today, our amendment to the Hillsborough Law, tabled by Luke Myer MP, was due to be considered in the House of Commons at the Bill’s Third Reading. It would extend the new offence of Misleading the Public so that it also applies to politicians. We believe this is essential, both to protect our democracy and to begin rebuilding trust in public life.

At the last minute, the government pulled the entire debate.

This followed a significant and welcome shift. After listening to the Hillsborough and Manchester Arena families, the government withdrew its own amendment that would have effectively left the Security Services outside the scope of the Bill. We are hugely glad they did that. But instead of proceeding with the Third Reading, it was taken off the agenda altogether, meaning our amendment could not be considered after all.

We are still waiting to hear when the debate will be rescheduled. And we are ready.

Thirty MPs have now signed up to support the amendment, some despite being advised by party whips not to. Over the weekend, more than 3,000 people wrote directly to the Justice Minister, Alexandra Davies-Jones, urging her to back it. Thousands more contacted their MPs.

That pressure matters. It is one of the reasons this amendment is still live.

Thank you for standing with us, and to everyone who has already taken that extra step. Thank you to Marcus J Ball, whose determination to challenge dishonesty in public life continues to be pivotal to this campaign and to 38 Degrees for sharing our call with their members.

This is not over. The debate may have been pulled, but the case for honesty in public life has only grown stronger.

With thanks and determination,
Compassion in Politics

P.S. Campaigns like this only succeed because people choose to back them. If you’re able to donate, your support will help us keep MPs engaged and ensure we are ready when this amendment returns to Parliament.