Today is the 31^st anniversary of the Hillsborough Disaster where we remember the 96 fans who tragically lost their lives.

I’ve been involved in helping the brave Hillsborough Families and survivors in their fight to get truth and justice for their loved ones for the past 30 years, since before I was elected to parliament.  I’ve witnessed the trauma and agony that they’ve endured, and I’m determined that no other families affected by tragedy should have to battle for justice like this ever again. That’s why I’m bringing forward a Public Advocate Bill, to provide a voice for bereaved families and make sure the mistakes of Hillsborough aren’t repeated.

This Bill is backed by the Hillsborough Family Support Group and written by myself and Lord Michael Wills in consultation with Hillsborough families and others bereaved in public disasters. It will make sure that, in the aftermath of disasters, bereaved families are helped rather than hindered. It will enable transparency and openness rather than families feeling alienated, ignored and let down by official proceedings, as happened with Hillsborough and has unfortunately happened with other disasters.

If passed, the Bill will also stand as a fitting tribute to the dignity, determination and drive of Hillsborough families and survivors as their three decades long campaign for justice draws to a close.

I was also pleased that the Bill received coverage in local and national media. You can read detailed articles about the Bill in the Liverpool Echo online and the BBC website and watch a short clip on BBC North West Tonight below.