Julian Smith urges Government to re-evaluate proposals that would close civil actions and inquests, warning of an unfair cut-off point for victims.

Julian Smith, a former Conservative Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, has urged the Government to revisit its proposals in the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill, which seeks to limit civil actions and inquests related to the Troubles. He expressed concerns about what he described as an “unfair cut-off point” that would restrict victims’ access to justice and truth.

During a debate in the House of Commons, Smith emphasised that the Government must ensure any independent commission established under the Bill has sufficient investigatory powers to deliver thorough and legally compliant investigations. He raised alarm over the shutting down of civil cases and inquests, which he believes has been an effective mechanism for victims to seek both discovery and reparations.

“The Bill has caused significant anger among victims, who feel their paths to justice are being closed off, while their access to the truth is also restricted,” said Smith. He acknowledged that the inquest system has often been resource-intensive without yielding conclusions, but stressed the importance of finding a fairer solution that would allow the current programme of work to be completed.

Smith also called on the Government to consult with the parties involved in the Good Friday Agreement (GFA), the people of Northern Ireland, and victim groups to ensure the Bill reflects their concerns. He expressed discomfort with the idea of voting for a Bill that could potentially grant immunity to those responsible for murder and other crimes.

DUP MP Ian Paisley (North Antrim) joined the debate, calling for changes to the Bill, warning that it could undermine the rule of law and fail to gain the necessary consensus in Northern Ireland. He also criticised the provisions for veterans, suggesting they would receive inadequate compensation.

Criticism was also voiced by Stephen Farry, deputy leader of the Alliance Party, who argued that the Bill was incompatible with principles of justice. He warned that the legislation could retraumatise victims by undermining the slim prospects for justice that remain.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood (Foyle) condemned the Bill, accusing the Government of using victims and reconciliation as a pretext for denying access to truth and justice. He pointed out that the Bill had no support from Northern Ireland’s political parties or victims’ groups.

Johnny Mercer, a former Conservative defence minister, acknowledged the complexity and difficulty of dealing with legacy issues but stressed the importance of finding a way forward to provide victims with some degree of closure and truth. He noted that while some individuals may avoid consequences, the focus should be on delivering justice for the victims.