Commissioner offers support to Birmingham pub bombing families after confirmation there will be no public inquiry

Simon Foster issued a statement about the announcement by the Government that it would not establish a public inquiry into the IRA's 1974 Birmingham pub bombings, which resulted in the deaths of 21 people and injuries to 220 after explosions at the Mulberry Bush and Tavern pubs.

In a statement today (Thursday), security minister Dan Jarvis said that while he had deep sympathy with the families, "after careful consideration" the Government would not commit to an inquiry.

Mr Foster said his thoughts were with everyone affected by the bombings and also said that if a review was requested by campaigners, he would hold the region's police force to account to ensure full cooperation.

He said: “My thoughts are with the 21 people killed, the many more injured and everyone affected, as a consequence of the appalling and brutal attacks, on the Mulberry Bush and Tavern in The Town on November 21, 1974.

“I commend Justice4the21, for having campaigned with relentless courage and determination, over many years, to secure accountability, truth and justice. 

"Although the Birmingham Pub bombings took place 51 years ago, there can be no statute of limitations on access to justice.

“The government has today, taken the decision, not to establish a public inquiry. 

"It is the government’s belief, that the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery is an effective route, which offers the best chance to secure accountability, truth and justice.

“If Justice4the21 decide to request a review by the Commission, then I will hold West Midlands Police to account, to ensure that there is accountability, co-operation and engagement with the process, so as to ensure that Justice4the21, secure access to the justice they are entitled to.”