Key Highlights
- The UK government has announced there will not be a public inquiry into the 1974 IRA Birmingham pub bombings.
- A family member of one of the victims criticized the decision as an affront to justice and indicated they would continue fighting for answers.
- The government cited ongoing investigations by an existing commission, but some families argue this is insufficient.
- Victims’ relatives and local officials expressed disappointment with the government’s decision.
The Decision Not to Hold a Public Inquiry
The UK government has decided against holding a public inquiry into the 1974 IRA bombings in Birmingham, which killed 21 people and injured over 200. The decision was announced just three days ago, following careful consideration by security minister Dan Jarvis.
Government’s Rationale
Minister Jarvis stated that while the government had deep sympathy for the families of the victims, they would not commit to an inquiry because they believe an ongoing independent commission investigation will be effective. The Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR) was established to investigate Troubles-related cases in Northern Ireland.
Family Members’ Response
Julie Hambleton, whose sister Maxine died in the bombings, criticized the decision, saying it would be “the epitome of moral and ethical turpitude” if no inquiry were held. She set up the Justice for the 21 campaign group to push for a public inquiry, comparing the government’s stance to them “marking their own homework.”
Historical Context
The bombings targeted two pubs, the Mulberry Bush and The Tavern in the Town, on November 21, 1974. An independent inquest in 2019 ruled that the victims were unlawfully killed by the IRA but did not determine the identities of those responsible. Five men—Paddy Hill, Johnny Walker, Richard McIlkenny, Gerry Hunter, and Billy Power—were later convicted as part of the Birmingham Six case, though they were eventually cleared.
Government’s Controversial Decision
Local officials like West Midlands mayor Richard Parker and Birmingham City Council leader John Cotton acknowledged that the families still need answers. They said they would request a meeting with security minister Jarvis to discuss next steps. Laurence Turner, Labour MP for Birmingham Northfield, described the decision as “disappointing,” citing repeated failures by public agencies to establish the truth.
Expert Perspectives
Investigative journalist Chris Mullin, who led a campaign for the release of the Birmingham Six and has tracked down some of the real bombers, expressed skepticism about the government’s decision. He stated that while he had identified several individuals involved in the bombings, he would not reveal their names at this time.
Future Implications
The families’ ongoing pursuit for justice highlights the long-lasting impact of historical atrocities on communities and the challenges faced by governments in addressing such issues. The Birmingham bombings remain a significant event in UK history, with many questions still unanswered despite decades of investigation.
