Laura Sharman 07 February 2020

Councils slam Grenfell's witnesses' immunity request

Councils would be unlikely to use products from any company that fails to cooperate fully with the Grenfell Tower inquiry, the Local Government Association (LGA) has warned.

This week the inquiry forwarded the request to grant witnesses immunity from having any evidence they give being used against them in future prosecutions to the Attorney General.

The LGA said it was ‘extremely’ concerned about the request as all those involved have a duty to fully participate in the inquiry and tell the unedited truth,.

Lord Porter, building safety spokesman for the LGA, said: 'We are concerned that either granting this request or, if it is denied, any subsequent refusal by witnesses to answer the Inquiry’s questions, will frustrate justice and hamper attempts to learn the lessons of Grenfell - lessons which are all the more urgent given the large number of buildings still covered in dangerous cladding and the subsequent blanket of fear that remains imposed on those who live in them.

'The LGA urges the Attorney General to do everything in his power to ensure the truth comes out in a manner that guarantees those who have a criminal case to answer face justice and does not jeopardise civil litigation against those responsible for rendering buildings unsafe.'

Lord Porter added: 'It would be hard to imagine that in the future any council would allow the use of any products manufactured by any company who did not cooperate fully with the inquiry.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Assistant Site Manager

Amey
£Competitive
We have a new opportunity for a permanent Assistant Construction Manager Cumbernauld, Glasgow
Recuriter: Amey

Director of Education and Inclusion

Wigan Council
£120,901
As we move into a new era built on the strengths and ambition of our borough, we are seeking an outstanding Director of Education... Wigan, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Wigan Council

Support Worker - Elmhurst Residential Home - Ulverston

Westmorland and Furness Council
£13.47 (£14.00 including supplement - after 6 months)
Are you interested in supporting Adults in Cumbria? Ulverston, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Locality Officer Level 3 - WMF2839e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£34,434 to £35,412
The Locality team are looking for a Level 3 Officer with the skills to support the team with environmental crime and Public Space Protection Orders Kendal, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Employment Vetting Officer

Essex County Council
£27003.0000 - £31768.0000 per annum
Employment Vetting OfficerPermanent, Full Time£27,003 - £31,768 per annum Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner