North Belfast MP John Finucane stated the British government showed contempt for victims of its state forces. He made the comment after Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn announced amendments to Troubles legacy legislation.

Benn described the changes as a substantial package. He said they improve processes for victims and families while safeguarding veterans. Benn noted the bill under the current government does not offer immunity, unlike the previous Conservative Legacy Act.

Finucane responded that the bill lacks thought or empathy for families. He said it aims to satisfy the British military lobby and security agencies. Finucane added those agencies focus on protecting state interests.

Finucane called the bill an act of political cynicism by the Labour Party. He said the government reneged on prior legacy commitments to gain votes. He stated it seeks to hide secrets of Britain's actions in Ireland.

Finucane said families pursuing truth and justice for decades will lose confidence due to the government's actions. He urged Taoiseach Micheál Martin and the Irish government to oppose the changes. He described them as a diversion from the joint legacy framework.