West Midlands Police 'supports the resumption of inquests'

I support the Coroner’s decision and West Midlands Police will assist the process now underway.

The Birmingham Pub Bombings of 1974 are one of the most serious terrorist attacks in the UK. West Midlands Police not only failed to catch those responsible but caused a miscarriage of justice. I have said and reiterate again, it is the most serious failing in this force’s history.

It is almost 42 years since these events. I understand families of those who lost their lives are frustrated, disappointed and angry.

Since 2012 and directly as a result of the campaign by families of those who died we have carefully reassessed the opportunities to bring the people responsible to justice. Despite an intense scrutiny we have not been able to see, at this time, a prospect of doing this. That has been an authentic and painstaking search for the truth.

We have not nor will not close this investigation.

West Midlands Police will support this enquiry as we have done through the recent hearings by the Coroner which determined whether the inquest should re-open. I hope the new inquest provides answers to families.