Understand
MPs seek to overturn court ruling protecting police from civil lawsuits
Overview
Backbench MPs Andrew Mitchell and Jess Phillips have submitted a parliamentary amendment to overturn a 2025 Court of Appeal ruling that grants police officers immunity from civil litigation during criminal investigations. The ruling, stemming from a case where a domestic abuse victim's confidential address was disclosed, prevents victims from suing police for serious investigative failings, negligence, or data breaches. Separately, the judgment may also be challenged at the Supreme Court.
Key points
- A 2025 Court of Appeal judgment in England and Wales granted police officers immunity from civil litigation for conduct and statements made during criminal investigations.
- Conservative MP Andrew Mitchell and Labour MP Jess Phillips have submitted a parliamentary amendment to counteract the ruling.
- The ruling originated from a case where Sussex Police and the CPS mishandled a domestic abuse victim's confidential address, leading to it being revealed to her abuser in court.
- The immunity blocks most civil claims against police, including those involving serious human rights abuses, negligence, fabricated evidence, and data breaches.
- The judgment is also subject to a potential challenge via a Supreme Court appeal.