Families of the 21 victims killed in the Birmingham pub bombings have organised a ‘March for Justice’ to renew calls for an inquiry into the attacks, more than five decades after the tragedy.
The campaign group Justice for the 21 led the march on Thursday, 24 September, beginning at Hagley Road Metro station at Five Ways before moving towards West Midlands Police Headquarters at Snow Hill. Their aim was to increase pressure on authorities to re-examine the events of 1974 and provide long-awaited answers to those affected.
The bombings, which remain the worst unsolved terrorist act on British soil, involved two bombs detonating minutes apart in the Mulberry Bush pub near the Rotunda building, and the Tavern In The Town in New Street. Approximately 200 people were injured in the blasts, alongside the 21 who lost their lives.
READ MORE: Teen Driver Admits Charges Following Police Chase and Crash in Aston
In 2025, the government’s decision not to hold a public inquiry into the bombings was met with deep disappointment by victims’ families. The campaign group, founded by relatives including Julie Hambleton - whose 18-year-old sister Maxine Hambleton and Maxine’s 17-year-old friend Jane Davis were among those killed - continues to seek justice and transparency.
Ms Hambleton said the families remain determined to uncover the truth all these years later.
A government spokesperson said: “Our deepest sympathies remain with all those who were left bereaved by the horrific pub bombings in Birmingham in 1974, as well as those survivors left with life-changing injuries. We know they are looking for answers, and we are committed to helping them in this search for truth.
“We believe the most appropriate route to pursue this is through the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery, which is already investigating Troubles-related cases and will be further strengthened by the Troubles Bill.”