Rotherham Council today welcomes the government’s confirmation of a statutory public inquiry into the policing of picket lines at the Orgreave coking plant on 18 June 1984, during the Miners’ Strike.
The Council has long supported calls for justice. In September 2015, Councillor Wallis and Councillor Watson led a motion that called for a full, independent public inquiry. The motion raised serious concerns about police conduct and evidence manipulation.
This stance was reaffirmed in 2017, when the Council again called for an inquiry, condemning the UK Home Secretary’s previous rejection as a ‘grave injustice.’ At the time, Councillors highlighted compelling evidence—most notably from the IPCC’s 2015 report—demonstrating excessive police violence, misleading narratives, and potential cover-ups.
The Council expresses its deep gratitude to long-standing campaigners, particularly the Orgreave Truth & Justice Campaign, whose persistence has led to today’s decision. The inquiry, scheduled to commence this autumn and chaired by Bishop Pete Wilcox, will have statutory powers to compel evidence and testimony.
Councillor Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, commented: “This announcement marks a significant and overdue step towards transparency and accountability. For over 40 years, former miners, their families, and our local communities have endured uncertainty. We commend the government for finally taking action.”
The Council also notes that 95 miners were arrested and charged at Orgreave, only to be acquitted later amid serious concerns of fabricated evidence and police perjury; many campaigners suffered severe physical and psychological harm after exercising their legal right to protest.
“We now look forward to a full and timely inquiry that brings clarity, closure, and justice to those affected,” added Councillor Chris Read.
