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Bombing survivor slams security services 'cover up'

7/7 survivor Beverli Rhodes - picture Mike Gunnill
7/7 survivor Beverli Rhodes - picture Mike Gunnill

A survivor of the 7/7 bombings is disappointed at plans to turn the victims' inquests into a public inquiry.

The government and Mi5 are calling for an inquiry so highly-classified intelligence material is not made public knowledge when the alleged failings of the police and the secret service are scrutinised.

Mother-of-four Beverli Rhodes, 49, of Nettlefield, Kennington (pictured right by Mike Gunnill) was badly injured by the bomb blast on the tube train travelling to Russell Square, London on July 7 in 2005.

She is unhappy at the move to cover up information and feels the survivors have a right to know what happened.

She said: "I don't think Mi5 or Scotland Yard would want what they have found out to become public knowledge. That's why they want it to be closed. If any of the operators are brought to the stand they will shut it down."

Mrs Rhodes was also angry that she and fellow survivors will not be represented at the inquests or an inquiry.

She said: "We had discussions with a senior counsellor and were told that we would be represented but that was chucked out.

"We've got no voice at all. The Honourable judge has decided that the survivors have no rights. I think it's appalling. It's a day that changed our lives forever but I think it's unlikely that anything that went through Mi5 will ever be made public.

"What's going to happen next time? That's what worries me."

The inquests are due to be held at the Royal Courts of Justice in October. A preliminary hearing will be held on July 23.

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