Time for Birmingham bombings inquiry, says Mayor Andy Street
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has called on the newly-elected Government to make an inquiry into the Birmingham pub bombings one of its top priorities.
Mr Street said he believed a full inquiry was necessary to provide closure for the families of those who were killed in the attacks.
Twenty-one people were killed and more than 180 injured when bombs planted by the IRA ripped through The Mulberry Bush and Tavern in the Town pubs in 1974. Inquests earlier this year ruled the victims were unlawfully killed but did not establish who was responsible.
The mayor said the time was now right for a full inquiry.
Mr Street said: "I have come to the conclusion that after 45 years, the time is right for a panel-led, public inquiry into the Birmingham pub bombings.
"The pub bombings remain the darkest night in Birmingham’s recent history, and, despite a huge reconciliation effort, we now need full closure, especially for the bereaved families. As with the Hillsborough tragedy, only a public inquiry will provide the answers that the families deserve.
"I believe a Government-backed inquiry would be welcomed by all of the communities of the West Midlands, in the Second City and beyond."
