British Scandal

The Birmingham Six | Chris Mullin, the “Loony Leftie” Who Freed the Birmingham Six | 4

Oct 8, 2025
Chris Mullin, a former Labour MP and journalist, spearheaded the campaign that uncovered the Birmingham Six's wrongful convictions. In this discussion, he reveals his journey from Vietnam reporting to questioning police forensics that led to false confessions. Mullin reflects on the media backlash he faced and his tireless pursuit of justice, including finding the real bombers. He also shares his thoughts on contemporary cases like Lucy Letby, the importance of investigative journalism, and ongoing challenges in the legal system.
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ANECDOTE

How Mullin Got Involved

  • Chris Mullin became obsessed with the Birmingham Six after a friend suggested the wrong men were convicted.
  • He pursued the case for decades driven by curiosity and a refusal to accept official accounts.
INSIGHT

Forensic Evidence Was Flawed

  • The grease test used in the case was unreliable because many innocent substances give positive results.
  • Re-testing by independent forensic scientists collapsed the prosecution's key forensic claim.
ANECDOTE

Police Coerced Confessions

  • Dr. Skuse told police two suspects had touched nitroglycerine then the officers coerced confessions through violence and threats.
  • Mock executions, dogs and plastic bags were used to force confessions over days.
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