MPs call for Birmingham pub bombings public inquiry
It's almost 50 years since 21 people died in two explosions in 1974
Last updated 20th Apr 2024
The Home Office has been asked to consider a full public inquiry into theBirmingham pub bombings.
It's almost 50 years since 21 people died at the Mulberry Bush and Tavern in the Town pubs on November 21 1974.
Eight of the city's MPs have called on the Home Secretary to consider a section 1 inquiry, saying their open letter released on X is a "campaign for truth, justice and accountability."
The letter continues: "This year we will commemorate the loss of life and the terrible tragedy that happened in our city as we reach the grim milestone of 50 years since the atrocity.
"Still, the family of these Birmingham citizens have been left with no justice for the loss of their loved ones, and no answers into the systemic failings and concerns around how this tragedy was handled for decades after the event.
"It is our belief that this request for a section 1 statutory public inquiry is needed to, not only provide much needed truth, justice and accountability for the families of the 21, but also to ensure learning for our state bodies that the same could not happen again."
The open letter was signed by Birmingham MPs Jess Philips (Labour, Yardley), Khalif Mahmood (Labour, Perry Barr), Preet Kaur Gill (Labour, Edgbaston), Gary Sambrook (Conservatives, Northfield), Steve McCabe (Labour, Selly Oak), Paulette Hamilton (Labour, Erdington), Liam Byrne (Labour, Hodge Hill) and Tahir Ali (Labour, Hall Green).
Julie Hambleton's sister Maxine was one of the 21 who died during the explosions and founded the campaign group Justice for the 21. She has told us they have cautiously welcomed the MP's campaign. She said: "It remains to be seen if it will assist us. Only time will tell.
"But as we have been let down time and time and time again, we are pessimistic but grateful to finally get the Birmingham MP's to support something that our loved ones quite rightly deserve."
A Home Office spokesperson said: “Our deepest sympathies remain with all those who continue to be affected by the horrific pub bombings in Birmingham in 1974. We will continue to work with the families of the victims and their representatives.
“The Security Minister met with families late last year to express his condolences and listen carefully to their views.”