The Rt Rev Dr Pete Wilcox said there would be a “real public benefit” in an independent review of documents relating to the events at the miners’ strike in Orgreave, in South Yorkshire, in 1984.
But the Home Office said its decision – described as a “real kick in the teeth” by campaigners – was made in light of changes to policing over the last 30 years.
Thousands of pickets and police officers clashed at the coking plant on June 18, 1984, in some of the most violent confrontations in the year-long miners’ strike.
A total of 95 people were charged with riot and violent disorder, although they were never convicted, and a number were injured.
Campaigners have been calling for an inquiry into the police tactics on that day, claiming that striking miners were assaulted and falsely arrested.
The Rt Rev Dr Wilcox said he was convinced that an independent panel to examine all relevant documentation would have “considerable support” in the region and would help those involved to move on.
He said: “I recently outlined to the Home Office the case for such an Independent Panel for Orgreave. So far, that case has not been accepted.
“However, I remain convinced of the need for a formal process and will continue discussions to that end in this Diocese.
“I remain hopeful that progress can yet be made and I remain ready to assist in whatever way I can, whenever the time is right.”
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